Release of selected amino acids from zinc carriers.

The paper deals with the results of an investigation of the release of selected amino acids (histidine, tryptophan, tyrosine) from model suspensions prepared by co-precipitation with zinc chloride. It has been proven that the influence of the Zn(II)/amino acid molar ratio on dissolution profiles of the tested amino acids and dissolution half-life (t1/2) of histidine or tryptophan is significant. The amount of amino acid in the dispersed phase (supporting dose) is a determinant of the amino acid release profile.

Impact of combined oral contraceptives containing ethinylestradiol on the liver microsomal metabolism.

Objectives: To check whether currently used combined oral contraceptives (COCs) containing ethinylestradiol (EE) affect the liver microsomal metabolism.

Methods: (13)C-methacetin breath test ((13)C-MBT) - a sensitive non-invasive probe of cytochrome P-450 1A2 activity - was performed in 15 women on day 14, 15, 16, 17 or 18 of intake of their COC (containing EE), and between day 1 and 5 during the withdrawal bleeding, as well as in nine women not using hormonal contraception during the luteal phase of their cycle (between the 17th and the 23rd day), and between day 1 and 5 during menstruation.

Results: The maximum breath (13)C elimination was significantly lower during the phase of intake of contraceptive pills than during withdrawal bleeding: 31.