Steady state bioavailability of a new oral formulation of Hydergine in geriatric patients.

The relative bioavailability of the newly developed formulation of co-dergocrine mesylate (Hydergine special, 1 x 4 mg) was determined in elderly patients under steady state conditions, with conventional Hydergine forte tablets (2 x 2 mg) as a reference. Both formulations were given once a day for 8 days in a randomised cross-over design. The areas under the curve showed that the bioavailability of the new tablet was about 30% higher (28 +/- 6.3%) than that of Hydergine forte. Th peak plasma concentration was reached 3 +/- 0.9 h after administration. Because of its greater relative bioavailability higher plasma levels were found 2-24 hours after the Hydergine special formulation than after Hydergine forte tablets.