Effect of cisapride on the gastro-oesophageal function in normal human subjects

The aim of this study was to investigate oesophageal peristalsis and gastro-oesophageal function in normal subjects after 4 days of cisapride 10 mg p.o. 3 times/day and 10 mg 1.5 h before the investigation. The study was carried out in a double-blind cross-over design with coded cisapride or placebo tablets. Basal sphincter pressure increased after cisapride (p less than 0.002). The peristaltic pressure amplitude in the oesophageal body as well as the duration and velocity of the peristaltic pressure wave were measured after wet swallows. No changes were found. Intragastric pH was unchanged after cisapride. No effect was found on the result of a standard acid clearing test. Plasma concentration of cisapride did not correlate with any of the other variables. Oral cisapride increases fasting gastro-oesophageal sphincter pressure, but does not influence oesophageal peristalsis, acid clearing or intragastric pH in normal subjects.