Pharmacokinetic study on piroxicam at the steady-state in elderly subjects and younger adults after administration of piroxicam beta-cyclodextrin.

The age effect on the kinetics of piroxicam at the steady-state after oral administration of piroxicam beta-cyclodextrin was evaluated. The mean plasma concentration of piroxicam at the steady-state was significantly higher in elderly subjects (9.30 +/- 0.69 micrograms/ml mean +/- s.e.) than in younger adults (6.24 +/- 0.58 micrograms/ml mean +/- s.e.). Even though the distribution volume tended to be lower in elderly subjects (106.37 ml/kg), it did not show substantial differences in the two groups whereas the correlation between clearance and age was significant (p less than 0.05). It is therefore confirmed that piroxicam beta-cyclodextrin has the same pharmacokinetic behaviour at the steady-state in elderly subjects, as the active principle in a non-complexed form.

[Clinical and laboratory evaluation of the efficacy of parenteral nutritional support in malnourished elderly]. / Valutazione clinica e laboratoristica dell'efficacia di un supporto nutrizionale per via parenterale nei deperimenti organici dell'anziano.

The study was carried out on twenty nine geriatric patients with malnutrition of variable aetiology. The effectiveness of a temporary parenteral nutritional supplement was evaluated both clinically and by means of some metabolic indexes: nitrogen balance, serum albumin, blood electrolytes, acid-base parameters, hemocytometry. The treatment was devoid of metabolic complications, and promoted a positive nitrogen balance as well as clinical improvement in most patients.