Gastric emptying effect of d,1-tranylcypromine and its stereoisomers

The effect of d,1-, d- and 1-tranylcypromine (Tc) on gastric emptying of rats trained to eat once a day during a 2-h period under conditions of normal or depleted catecholamine stores was studied. d,1-Tc and d-Tc reduced gastric emptying intensely and almost similarly whereas 1-Tc produced a qualitatively less intense effect. Reserpine did not modify this effect of d,1-Tc. It is concluded that d,1-Tc is the most effective form for delaying gastric emptying, this effect being mainly due to the d-isomer. Catecholamines are not involved in the gastric inhibiting effect of these drugs.