Pharmacokinetics of Pergolide Mesylate in Horses

Aims: Pergolide mesylate is the treatment of choice for equine pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID) and veterinary preparations are now licensed for this use in a number of countries. Pharmacokinetic properties of the drug have not been established completely in horses and current dosing recommendations are based upon clinical experience. This study aimed to establish the pharmacokinetic properties of the drug following intravenous administration. 

Methods: Eight healthy Thoroughbred or Standardbred geldings were administered 0.02 mg/kg bwt pergolide mesylate via an intravenous jugular catheter. Blood samples were collected over a period of 48 h from a catheter in the contralateral jugular vein for determination of plasma pergolide concentrations. Pergolide concentrations in plasma were determined using a high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry assay. [...]