K+ channel openers delay intestinal transit and have antidiarrheal activity

The effect of pinacidil and cromakalim, two KATP channel openers, on intestinal transit and castor oil-induced diarrhea was studied in mice. Both drugs, administered orally, dose dependently inhibited the intestinal propulsion of charcoal, and castor oil-induced diarrhea, comparing favorably with morphine. These results may suggest a new approach for the symptomatic treatment of diarrhea.