Pharmacokinetics of epsilon-aminocaproic acid during peritoneal dialysis

Two patients requiring peritoneal dialysis were treated with epsilon-aminocaproic acid (EACA), an antifibrinolytic agent. Samples of serum and dialysate were assayed for EACA concentrations. Total body clearance, dialysis clearance, EACA half-life, and volume of distribution of EACA were calculated. Total body clearance of EACA was 26 ml/min, which is 25% of the drug clearance in patients with normal renal function. Our results suggest that patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis should receive 25% of the usual recommended dose of EACA. Dialysis clearance accounted for only 58% of total body clearance, suggesting an alternative route of elimination of EACA.