[Absorption and oxidation rate of arginine and malate (author's transl)].

Six normal volunteers received L-Arginin and DL-Malat p.o. in order to test absorption and utilisation of these compounds. Both compounds are almost completely reabsorbed from the intestine and then metabolized. Only about 2% of the arginine applied are recovered in the urine. 15% of arginine and 45% of malate applied are metabolized within 8 hours. If absorption is unimpaired oral therapy of hyperammoniemia would require application of the malate-arginine solution for every 3 hours, if constant plasma levels are to be achieved.