Effect of experimental hyperlipidemia on the pharmacokinetics of digoxin

The study was carried out on 18 male rabbits randomaly ascribed into two groups: control one on standard diet and experimental one on high-fat diet for 2 months. Pharmacokinetic assays were performed in all animals after 2 months of the experiment. Blood was sampled within 24 hours after intragastrical administration of digoxin at a dose 0.02 mg/kg. The two compartment open model for extravascular administration was used for calculations. Marked increase in plasma drug concentration, as well as decrease in total clearance were noted. The study revealed the influence of experimental hyperlipidemia on digoxin pharmacokinetics leading to a slower drug elimination.