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Glucagon therapy in acute pancreatitis: prospective randomized double-blind study
Canadian Journal of Surgery. Journal Canadien De Chirurgie
|November 1, 1980
Summary
Glucagon, a hormone, was tested for acute pancreatitis treatment. This study found glucagon provided no benefit for patients with acute pancreatitis, contrary to prior expectations.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Endocrinology
- Clinical Trials
Background:
- Glucagon is known to suppress pancreatic enzyme and gastric acid secretion.
- Previous uncontrolled studies suggested glucagon might be effective in treating acute pancreatitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively evaluate the efficacy of glucagon in treating patients with acute pancreatitis through a randomized, double-blind, controlled trial.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, randomized, double-blind, controlled trial involving 66 patients with acute pancreatitis.
- Patients were divided into two groups: one received glucagon, the other a placebo, alongside conventional therapy.
- Groups were comparable in pancreatitis cause and disease severity.
Main Results:
- Glucagon did not significantly reduce analgesic requirements, duration of abdominal signs, ileus, or hyperamylasemia.
- Hospital stay was not shortened by glucagon treatment.
- Mortality occurred in 4 patients (3 in the glucagon group).
Conclusions:
- Glucagon demonstrated no beneficial effect on the clinical course or outcome of acute pancreatitis.
- The findings contradict theoretical expectations and previous uncontrolled trial results.
- Efficacy of glucagon in acute pancreatitis is not supported, regardless of etiology or severity.