Stimulation of pancreatic secretion by sulpiride

Sulpiride is a nonsedative neuroleptic, pharmacologically related to metoclopramide, which has previously been shown to affect various gastric functions and to exert a beneficial effect in the treatment of duodenal ulcer. In the present study the authors investigated the effects of sulpiride on pancreatic exocrine secretion. The intravenous injection of sulpiride (100 mg) during a constant infusion of secretin (0.5 CU/kg/hr) and cholecystokinin (0.5 IDU/kg/hr) significantly increased outputs of bicarbonate and enzymes in nine healthy subjects. The increase was maximal 20-30 min after sulpiride administration and lasted for the duration of the study (1 hr). Compared to presulpiride control levels, the mean maximum percent increase was 35% for bicarbonate, 39% for lipase, and 32% for chymotrypsin. It is concluded that sulpiride augments pancreatic secretion stimulated by submaximal doses of secretin and cholecystokinin. The mechanism of this effect is unknown.