Effect of sodium salicylate on insulin rectal absorption in humans

The absorption promoting effect of sodium salicylate (CAS 54-21-7), 200 mg/100-U insulin (CAS 12584-58-6) suppository, was studied in 4 normal volunteers and 15 insulin dependent diabetic patients. Insulin rectal bioavailability was quantitated through the measurement of its hypoglycaemic effect and of its serum levels. A hypoglycaemic effect and a significant rise in serum insulin concentrations were traced at 15 min and maintained for 90 min post administration. The investigated suppositories, thus, proved that sodium salicylate is effective in enhancing the rectal absorption of insulin in humans.