MicroPharm-K, a Microcomputer Interactive Program for the Analysis and Simulation of Pharmacokinetic Processes

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Abstract
Purpose. The microcomputer program, MicroPharm-K (MP-K) was developed for pharmacokinetic modeling, including analysis of experimental data and estimation of relevant parameters, and simulation. The intention was to provide a user-friendly, interactive, event-driven program for PC computers. Methods. The data are ascribed to a predefined model from a library including various routes of administration, oral or intra-venous, bolus or infusion, and various compartmental interpretations, 1 to 3. Single and multiple administrations are supported. The program provides initial estimates of the parameters in most cases, and the parameters are then fitted to the model by non linear model fitting using either the Simplex, Evol, Gauss-Newton, Levenberg-Marquardt or Fletcher-Powell algorithms. The non linear model fitting is based on the maximum likelihood method, and the criterion to minimize is either the weighted least squares (Chi2 criterion) or the extended least squares. Graphical representations of non-fitted or curve-fitted data are immediately available (including log-scale representation), as well as pharmacokinetic typical parameters such as area under the curve, clearance, volumes, time-rate constants, transfer rate constants, etc. Results. Simulated and experimental data were analysed and the results were similar to those obtained by other programs. Conclusions. This non linear fitting program has been proved in our laboratory to be a very effective package for pharmacokinetic studies, including estimation and simulation. Because it is easy-to-use and runs on basic computers, the program could also be used for educational purposes.

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