The effect of CTAB, a cationic surfactant, on the absorption rate of [ 14C]tripalmitate from a test meal in the rat

Abstract

The effect of CTAB, a cationic surfactant, on the absorption rate of [ 14C]tripalmitate from a test meal was studied in male rats. It was found that the surfactant in small doses (0·8, 2·4 or 8·0 mg/kg) increased the absorption rate of [ 14C]tripalmitate from the intestinal tract by accelerating gastric emptying. However, at a dose of 400 mg/kg a marked retardation of gastric emptying was observed. When administered intragastrically to pylorus-ligated rats, the surfactant did not alter the amount of fluid secreted into the stomach.