J Zoo Wildlife Med
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The serum concentration of amikacin following intracardiac and i.m. administration of amikacin (3.48 mg/kg) in 12 ball pythons (Python regius) housed at 25 degrees C and 37 degrees C was studied. Blood samples were collected by cardiocentesis at intervals up to 144 hr after administration of amikacin. Drug concentration-versus-time curves following intracardiac administration at both temperatures best fit a two-compartment open model. ⋯ Therefore, amikacin (3.48 mg/kg) administered i.m. to ball pythons should produce maximum serum concentrations against most pathogenic bacteria. In this study, it would have taken another half-life, or 4.5 days, before trough concentrations of 2 micrograms/ml were achieved. To prevent accumulation, a one-time administration of amikacin may be appropriate.