[Experimental filariasis in Proechimys oris by Dipetalonema dessetae. 5. Effect of parasitism on metabolism of diethylcarbamazine].

The metabolism of diethylcarbamazine (DEC) in healthy and filaria-infected Proechimys oris Rodents was investigated. DEC and 14C labelled DEC were orally administrated (100 mg/kg). The drug was quickly and intensively metabolised. About 90% of the dose administered was eliminated in the urine within 24 hours. Monodeethylation was the major pathway. The major urinary metabolites were ethylcarbamazine and its N-oxide. Traces of N methylpiperazine 2,5 dione and their N-oxide were also found. Elimination was faster in filarial than in healthy animals, but metabolites were the same.