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Effects of cisapride on ano-rectal sphincter function
1University Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine, Düsseldorf, FRG.
Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics
|December 1, 1989
Summary
Cisapride, a gut motility agent, increased stool frequency and softened stools in healthy volunteers. It also reduced anal resting pressure, suggesting a dual mechanism for improving defecation in chronic constipation.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Cisapride is a gastrointestinal motility-inducing agent.
- Its effects on ano-rectal sphincter function are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of cisapride on ano-rectal sphincter functions in healthy individuals.
Main Methods:
- A placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized crossover study.
- 10 healthy male volunteers received 20 mg of cisapride daily for 5 days.
- Standard manometry and stool diaries were used to collect data.
Main Results:
- Cisapride significantly increased stool frequency, with a higher proportion of soft and liquid stools.
- Anal resting pressure decreased by 16% in 70% of subjects.
- No significant changes were observed in other manometric measurements.
Conclusions:
- Cisapride may directly affect the internal anal sphincter smooth muscle, reducing anal tone.
- Enhanced defecation with cisapride in constipation may involve decreased anal sphincter tone in addition to colonic propulsion.