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Bethanechol for pediatric gastroesophageal reflux: a prospective, blind, controlled study
Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition
|July 1, 1986
Summary
Bethanechol increased lower esophageal sphincter pressure in children with reflux but did not improve reflux symptoms. In some patients, it worsened reflux, questioning its use for treating pediatric gastroesophageal reflux.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders
Background:
- Gastroesophageal reflux is common in children.
- Bethanechol is sometimes used to treat reflux by increasing lower esophageal sphincter pressure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate bethanechol's effect on postprandial gastroesophageal reflux in children.
- To determine the relationship between bethanechol's effect on lower esophageal sphincter pressure and reflux.
Main Methods:
- 31 children with pathologic reflux underwent manometry and pH probe testing.
- Measurements were taken before and after bethanechol administration.
Main Results:
- Bethanechol increased lower esophageal sphincter pressure in 97% of patients, normalizing it in most.
- No overall improvement in postprandial reflux measures was observed.
- Patients with initially normal sphincter pressures showed worsened reflux.
Conclusions:
- Acute bethanechol administration failed to improve postprandial gastroesophageal reflux in children.
- The study questions the appropriateness of using bethanechol for treating pediatric reflux.