RECTAL ADMINISTRATION OF N-ACETYLCYSTEINE IN SWINE - A PILOT-STUDY

The purpose of this pilot study was to determine if N-acetylcysteine ( NAG) administered via the rectal route in swine is absorbed into the s ystemic circulation. Fasting swine were anesthetized, intubated, monit ored and iv access was obtained by femoral cutdown. NAC was administer ed into the rectal vault (2.0 g/kg) via a balloon-tipped Foley cathete r inserted into the animals(1) rectum. NAC administered via the rectal route resulted in systemic absorption as determined by spectrophotome tric methods in 5 of the 7 study animals. This study provides importan t information regarding the development of a potential alternative rou te for the administration of NAG.