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Dexamethasone modifies morphine-, atropine-, verapamil-induced constipation in mice
A Calignano1, A Capasso, P Persico
1Department of Experimental Pharmacology, University of Naples Federico II, Italy.
General Pharmacology
|July 1, 1992
Summary
Dexamethasone effectively reversed gastrointestinal constipation in mice caused by morphine and atropine. This steroid
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Gastroenterology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Opioids, anticholinergics, and calcium channel blockers can induce gastrointestinal constipation.
- Steroids, like dexamethasone, may influence gastrointestinal motility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of dexamethasone on drug-induced constipation in mice.
- To explore the potential mechanism of dexamethasone's action on gastrointestinal transit.
Main Methods:
- Gastrointestinal constipation was induced in mice using morphine, verapamil, and atropine.
- The effect of dexamethasone on charcoal meal transit was assessed.
- Dose-response relationships were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Morphine, verapamil, and atropine inhibited gastrointestinal transit in a dose-dependent manner.
- Dexamethasone reversed the constipating effects of morphine and atropine.
- Dexamethasone showed less efficacy in reversing verapamil-induced constipation.
Conclusions:
- Dexamethasone plays a role in regulating gastrointestinal transit.
- Dexamethasone may reverse constipation by increasing acetylcholine release.
- The reduced effect on verapamil-induced constipation suggests a minor role for calcium influx in this interaction.