Inhalation studies with the Gottingen minipig

A method for inhalative exposure of minipigs to aerosols and gases has been developed. Minipigs are exposed via mask inhalation to the test substance using a computer-controlled exposure system that permits simultaneous expos ure of groups of four animals in parallel to different controlled dose leve ls. We studied inhalation treatment of verapamil, a cardiovascular drug, an d show good absorption and favorable pharmacokinetics when compared with iv drug application. The results shown in this study encourage inhalation stu dies with the Gottingen minipig.