[Therapy of diarrhea in diabetic enteropathy with clonidine]

The syndrome of neuropathy belongs to the frequent complications of diabetes. Within a visceral neuropathy a diabetic enteropathy may appear, in which cases diarrhoeas and incontinence stand to the fore. The therapy of the symptoms and signs is often difficult. It is reported on the influence by means of the antihypertensive drug clonidin (Haemiton). In 4 out of 9 patients a regression of the frequency of motion from on an average 8 to 2 a day took place. 2 other patients examined reported on an improvement. Also the nocturnal incontinence could positively be influenced. The antidiarrhoeic effect of clonidin is perhaps based on a direct stimulation of alpha 2-receptors.