Pharmacokinetic considerations in local drug delivery

Considerable data have been gathered on intra-arterial drug infusion via infusion pumps. The pharmacokinetic theory underlying the principles of intra-arterial drug administration are well described. Although some examples can be found of successful administration of drugs by the intra-arterial route, other drugs have yielded disappointing results. In this paper it is argued that the apparent failure of the intra-arterial route, both clinically and experimentally, is due to a lack of relevant consideration of pharmacokinetics. Examples are described in which the probability of successful intra-arterial drug administration is enhanced substantially by considerations of the relevant pharmacokinetic factors.