[Effect of nitrendipine on the function of the upper gastrointestinal tract]

A double-blind crossover-trial comparing the influence of orally administered nitrendipine and placebo on the function of the upper gastrointestinal tract was carried out in ten healthy volunteers. Esophageal motility, intestinal transit time, size and motility of the gallbladder, serum gastrin levels and gastric secretion (basal and after stimulation with pentagastrin) were determined. No statistically significant differences between nitrendipine and placebo could be observed. Most parameters remained unchanged in both groups. Serum gastrin levels slightly increased after nitrendipine but did not exceed the normal range. The results demonstrate that nitrendipine given in an antihypertensive dosage, in contrast to other calcium antagonists, does not influence the function of the upper gastrointestinal tract.