Effects of metoclopramide on plasma corticosteroid levels in sheep

This study investigated the role of dopaminergic mechanisms in modulation of corticosteroid secretion in sheep. Administration of the dopamine antagonist metoclopramide (200 micrograms/kg iv) in six mature sheep resulted in rapid and parallel rises in plasma cortisol, corticosterone, 18-hydroxycorticosterone, and aldosterone. Treatment of the sheep with 4 mg dexamethasone im every 6 h for 4 days abolished the response of all four corticosteroids to metoclopramide in the six sheep. These observations suggest that metoclopramide may stimulate corticosteroid secretion in sheep via nonspecific stressor effects.