Enhancement of the phototherapy effect by albumin in Gunn rats. Investigations on the optimal albumin dose

In pharmacokinetic studies we proved that the efficacy of phototherapy in jaundiced Gunn rats was enhanced by administration of human albumin. The albumin injections provoked a bilirubin shift from extravascular compartments into the circulation.In this study, calculations on the optimal albumin dose were carried out. After s.c. injections a good effect could be ascertained with doses between 2 and 4 g/kg body weight. After i.v. injections effective plasma concentrations could be maintained for an acceptable time by about 2 g albumin/kg body weight. When overdoses were given, a considerable amount of albumin was eliminated very quickly—especially after i.v. injections with the rapid rise of the plasma level. Clinical implications are discussed.