Pharmacokinetic parameters of antipyrine in dog after hepatectomy

Pharmacokinetic studies with antipyrine were carried out on beagle dogs to determine the consequence of hepatectomy on hepatic drug metabolizing capacity, the rate of hepatic regeneration, and the possible beneficial effect of hepatocellular transplantation. The drug (250 mg) was administered by short IV infusion in three groups of dogs (first group, 65% hepatectomy; second group, 65% hepatectomy with hepatocyte transplantation; third group 80% hepatectomy). Pharmacokinetic parameters of antipyrine were evaluated before surgery and within 10 d after surgery. Blood samples were taken at frequent intervals after drug administration and antipyrine was assayed in plasma by a specific HPLC method with UV detection. Before surgery, the mean elimination half-life was about 1.1 h and total clearance averaged 6 L h-1. In dogs with 65% hepatectomy, no statistical differences in pharmacokinetic parameters of antipyrine appeared before or after surgery. When 65% hepatectomy was associated with hepatocyte transplantation, a significant increase in elimination half-life and a significant decrease in total clearance were observed. The same statistical differences in the pharmacokinetic parameters were observed in the group with 80% hepatectomy. Transplantation of isolated hepatocytes into the spleen did not correct hepatocellular insufficiency. In this study, numerous laboratory tests were performed. A significant correlation was found between serum albumin, cholesterol, factor V, ALAT, total bilirubin, and ratio of amino acids and the pharmacokinetic parameters of antipyrine.