Magnetic extraction of toxin binding liposomes; a method to ameliorate drug toxicity? Preliminary in vitro/ in vivo study.

Abstract

Removal of a toxin from the body once absorbed is usually not possible. We describe the use of magnetite containing pH gradient'MagnepH' liposomes to overcome limitations preventing removal. MagnepH liposomes were added to albumin solution containing amitriptyline and dosed intravenously in rats prior to amitriptyline injection. Albumin solution or drawn blood was exposed to a magnet and sampled. One third of amitriptyline was extracted in vitro. In vivo amitriptyline concentrations were 1830nmol/l (controls) and 10870nmol/l (MagnepH; n=2). Amitriptyline extraction increased from 0.6% (control) to 10.4% (MagnepH; 95% CI for difference 2.0-17.6%). MagnepH liposomes sequestered amitriptyline and could then be extracted. This method has potential to ameliorate limitations to extracorporeal removal of toxins in poisoning.