Effect of domperidone on gastro-oesophageal function in normal human subjects

The aim of the study was to investigate gastro-oesophageal function in normal volunteers after oral administration of domperidone as a single dose (20 mg). The study was designed as a double-blind cross-over investigation. Ten healthy men (aged 27-50 years; median, 30) joined the study. Oesophageal function tests were performed, starting 1.5 h after intake of domperidone or placebo. Gastro-oesophageal sphincter pressure was measured with a perfused catheter system and a continuous pull-through technique. No changes in sphincter pressure were found. Peristaltic pressure amplitude in the body of the oesophagus and the duration and velocity of peristalsis were measured after wet swallows (bolus 5 ml of water). No changes were found. Intragastric pH did not change significantly after domperidone. No effect of domperidone on the results of a standard acid-clearing test could be found. Plasma concentrations of domperidone did not correlate with any of the other variables. In conclusion, domperidone given orally in a dose that has been shown to accelerate gastric emptying does not influence gastro-oesophageal sphincter pressure or peristaltic activity in the normal oesophagus.