Effect of benzyl nicotinate on the percutaneous absorption of dexamethasone in the rat.

The effect of benzyl nicotinate (15 mg) on the percutaneous absorption of dexamethasone 0,1 mg (62,5 uCi)/6 cm2, in an ethanol/octanol vehicle has been investigated in the rat. Both the urinary excretion and blood concentration data showed that benzyl nicotinate had a pronounced stimulating effect on the rate and extent of absorption. The relative bioavailability of dexamethasone was found to be 120% (urinary excretion data) or 146% (blood concentration data). Peak blood concentration increased greatly and was reached more quickly (1 1/2 hours instead of 2 1/2 hours).