Increased dipropylacetic acid bioavailability from dipropylacetamide by food

The present study was designed to investigate the influence of food on dipropylacetic acid (DPA) absorption from dipropylacetamide (DPM). Six healthy male volunteers received at weekly intervals, in a crossover randomized fashion, a single oral dose of 60 mg DPM, as 2 X 300-mg capsules, in a fasting state and after a standard meal. In the latter state, the lag time of DPA appearance in the serum increased significantly (p less than 0.02) from 0.6 +/- 0.2 to 2.3 +/- 1.2 h (mean values +/- SD). Maximal DPA serum levels and bioavailability increased significantly (p less than 0.05), with mean values of 27.7 +/- 19.8 and 19.0 +/- 14.7%, respectively, following food. The slower gastric emptying with a consequent improved DPM exposure to metabolizing enzymes and changes in gastric pH probably accounted for these findings. These results suggest that it is more advantageous to take DPM after meals. This helps to reduce gastrointestinal disturbances and to promote DPA absorption.