The effect of a high-fat meal on the pharmacodynamics of a model lipophilic compound that binds extensively to triglyceride-rich lipoproteins

A high-fat meal induces transient hyperlipidemia characterized by elevated triglyceride-rich lipoproteins (TRL) which are composed mainly of chylomicrons. The purpose of this work was to investigate the effect of this transient hyperlipidemia on the pharmacodynamics of lipophilic drugs, using DDT as a model compound since it binds extensively to TRL and has a distinct neurotoxic effect. The postprandial hyperlipidemia in rats was induced by oral administration of peanut oil and was monitored by measurement of plasma triglyceride levels. The control group received water instead of oil. The rats received a continuous intravenous infusion of DDT (10 mg/h) until onset of a predefined pharmacodynamic endpoint (facial muscle tremor). Plasma and brain samples were then obtained and assayed for DDT. Rats with postprandial hyperlipidemia required higher dose of DDT to induce onset of facial muscle tremor. At the pharmacodynamic endpoint, oil treated rats had significantly higher concentrations of DDT in plasma and in the chylomicron fraction, but DDT brain concentrations were the same in both groups. In conclusion, a high-fat meal induces postprandial hyperlipidemia that may significantly alter the pharmacological profile of lipophilic compounds that bind to TRL. This is due to alteration of the distribution characteristics of the lipophilic compound through its association with postprandial lipoproteins. However, this pharmacokinetic phenomenon did not affect the concentration–effect relationship at the site of action in the brain.