Influence of acid suppressants on gastric emptying: cross-over analysis in healthy volunteers

Inadequate gastric preparation and its associated factors for magnetically controlled capsule endoscopy

Goals: To explore factors associated with inadequate gastric preparation for MCE. Background: Factors associated with inadequate gastric preparation for magnetically controlled capsule endoscopy (MCE) remains unclear. Study: Data of patients who underwent MCE from June 2021 to July 2022 were prospectively collected. The gastric cleanliness score (GCS) of the six stomach regions (gastric cardia, fundus, body, angulus, antrum, and pylorus) was recorded. Patients with GCS score ≥18 were defined as the adequate preparation. Factors related to inadequate gastric preparation were analyzed using a logistic regression model with estimated odds ratios (OR). Results: The mean GCS score of 211 patients was 17.01 ± 2.82. In the multivariable analysis, proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use (OR 3.57; 95% CI 1.69-7.95; p < 0.01) and premedication time after administering simethicone <30 min (OR 2.86; 95% CI 1.10-7.39; p = 0.03) were independent risk factors for inadequate gastric preparation. Comparing the gastric cleanliness of different locations, the median GCS of the lower stomach [10.00, IQR (9.50, 11.00)] was significantly higher than that of the upper stomach [7.00, IQR (6.00, 8.00)] (p <0.001). Conclusion: PPI use and inadequate premedication time (<30 min) may reduce the quality of gastric preparation for MCE. The type, dose, duration of medication, and discontinuation time of PPIs was well worth further exploration. Appropriate control of the type and time of premedication may be the key to improving overall gastric cleanliness.

Administration of a standard dose of vonoprazan fumarate delays gastric emptying in Japanese healthy adults: a prospective clinical trial

BACKGROUND

There is no established view of how gastric acid suppression affects the time for gastric emptying. Vonoprazan fumarate shows potent and durable gastric acid inhibitory effects, but its effects on gastric emptying have not been studied widely. We investigated the effects of vonoprazan fumarate on gastric emptying and measured serum gastrin and plasma ghrelin levels in healthy adults.

METHODS

Ten participants were administered 10 mg vonoprazan fumarate daily for 14 days, then 20 mg vonoprazan fumarate daily for 14 days. The gastric emptying breath test was performed and serum gastrin levels were measured at baseline and after each medication administration period. The protocol was then repeated, with the gastric emptying breath test and serum gastrin and plasma desacyl-ghrelin levels measured at baseline and the end of the medication trial.

RESULTS

Mean serum gastrin levels increased in a dose-dependent manner [baseline: 104.7 ± 50.4, after 10 mg protocol: 328 ± 123.8, after 20 mg protocol: 555 ± 378.8 (pg/mL, mean ± standard deviation), p = 0.0008]. There was a significant difference between the gastric emptying breath test Tmax at baseline and just after the 20 mg protocol (baseline: 45.5 ± 15.3, after 20 mg protocol: 60.5 ± 19.6 min, p = 0.0418). Plasma desacyl-ghrelin levels increased significantly just after the 20 mg protocol compared to those at baseline [baseline: 222.3 ± 106.4, after 20 mg protocol: 366.2 ± 178.6 (fmol/mL), p = 0.0008].

CONCLUSIONS

In healthy adults, 14 days of vonoprazan fumarate administration at 20 mg/day delayed gastric emptying.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This clinical trial was registered in the University hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trial Registry (Trial No. UMIN000039199 and UMIN000042969).

Proton pump inhibitor use increases the risk of peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis patients

Peritonitis is a major and the most significant complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD). Although some predictors of peritonitis in PD patients are known, the association between proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use and peritonitis has not been characterized. Here, we examined whether PPI use is a risk factor for the development of peritonitis, based on a single-center retrospective analysis of 230 consecutive Japanese PD patients at Narita Memorial Hospital. We assessed the association between PPI use and subsequent first episode of peritonitis using multivariate Cox proportional hazards models, following adjustment for clinically relevant factors. The median follow-up period was 36 months (interquartile range, 19–57 months). In total, 86 patients (37.4%) developed peritonitis. Analysis with multivariate Cox proportional hazards models revealed the following significant predictors of peritonitis: PPI use (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] = 1.72, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.11–2.66; P = 0.016) and low serum albumin level (per g/dl adjusted HR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.39–0.90; P = 0.014). Thus, PPI use was independently associated with PD-related peritonitis. The results suggest that nephrology physicians should exercise caution when prescribing PPIs for PD patients.

Comparison of clinical symptoms, gastric motility and fat intake in the early chronic pancreatitis patients with anti-acid therapy-resistant functional dyspepsia patients

Background

There was no available data concerning the clinical differentiation between the updated definition of early chronic pancreatitis (ECP) and anti-acid therapy-resistant functional dyspepsia (RFD).

Aims

We aimed to determine whether clinical symptoms, gastric motility, psychogenic factors and fat intake can help distinguish early chronic pancreatitis (ECP) from anti-acid therapy-resistant functional dyspepsia patients with pancreatic enzyme abnormalities (RFD-P) and anti-acid therapy-resistant functional dyspepsia (RFD) patients using endosonography.

Methods

We enrolled 102 consecutive patients presenting with typical symptoms of RFD patients (n = 52), ECP patients (n = 25) and RFD-P patients (n = 25). ECP patients were diagnosed based on the criteria recommended by the Japan Pancreatic Association. Gastric motility was evaluated by ¹³C-acetate breath tests. Severity of duodenal inflammation was examined.

Results

24.5% of RFD patients were determined as ECP using endosonography. Abdominal pain score in Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) in the patients with ECP was significantly lower compared to that in the patients with RFD-P. There were no significant differences in State-Trait Inventory (STAI)-state/-trait scores, Self-Rating Questionnaire for Depression (SRQ-D) scores and clinical symptoms for fat intake among three groups. The early phase of gastric emptying (AUC₅; AUC₁₅) in ECP and RFD-P patients were significantly disturbed compared to those in RFD patients.

Conclusions

Evaluation of severity of abdominal pain and measurement of the early phase of gastric emptying will be useful tools to distinguish ECP patients from RFD patients. Accurate diagnosis of ECP patients may contribute to the prevention from advancing of chronic pancreatitis.

Autonomic dysfunction of gastric motility in major depression

BACKGROUND

Patients suffering from major depressive disorder (MDD) often complain about somatic symptoms. Cardiac complaints have been examined predominantly. However, gastrointestinal complaints are also reported frequently and are associated with worse outcomes. The research concerning changes in gastric motility of these patients is rather sparse. The aim of our study was to determine dysfunction of gastric motility and gastrointestinal symptoms in MDD. The duration and severity of MDD were examined regarding its influence over gastric emptying.

METHODS

Gastric emptying was determined by a ¹³C-acetate breath test in patients with MDD (n = 29) and healthy control subjects (n = 51). Prior to this, depressive illness was operationalized using external and self-assessment scales (HAMD-21, MADRS, BDI, CGI). Whether the severity or duration of MDD influenced the gastric emptying parameters was examined using Spearman's correlation. In addition, autonomic complaints were recorded by means of an ANS score. Each ANS score item was determined using a Mann-Whitney U or Kruskal-Wallis test concerning the gastric emptying parameters.

RESULTS

There was a significant difference in the parameters of the maximum gastric emptying rate (T_max) and gastric half emptying time T_1/2b between patients with MDD and healthy control subjects (T_max 66.21min vs 53.35min, p < 0.006, T_1/2b 207.59min vs 133.27min, p < 0.005). There was a significant negative correlation between T_max and the severity of MDD determined with the depression rating scales BDI (Spearman's rank - 0.521, p = 0.013) and HAMD-21 (r - 0.384, p = 0.048). No correlation was found between the duration of MDD and the maximum gastric emptying rate (r - 0.125, p = 0.519) and gastric half emptying time (r - 0.62, p = 0.749).

CONCLUSION

Gastrointestinal motility is significantly impaired in patients with MDD compared to healthy control subjects. Autonomic complaints were indicated frequently in MDD patients. The duration of MDD had no influence over the time of gastric emptying. There was a significant negative correlation between the severity of MDD and T_max, indicating that the T_max was reached earlier with the progression of MDD. The slowing of gastric motility in MDD patients is likely a result of a dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system.

Influence of proton pump inhibitors in the development of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis

AIM

To investigate whether the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) increases the incidence of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) in patients with cirrhosis and ascites.

METHODS

An historical cohort study was carried out in cirrhotic outpatients with ascites followed in a specialized clinic at a tertiary hospital in Southern Brazil. Patient charts were reviewed to collect information on the variables of interest as the use of PPIs. Primary outcome was defined as development of SBP during the study period. SBP was diagnosed based on ascitic fluid polymorphonuclear cell count ≥ 250 cells/mm³ without evidence of an intra-abdominal, surgically treatable source of infection.

RESULTS

Of 738 cirrhotic patients, 582 (58.2% male) were enrolled, with mean age of 53.6 ± 12 years. Hepatitis C virus infection (36.2%) and alcohol abuse (25.6%) were the main etiologies of cirrhosis. The presence of ascites was detected in 299 (51.4%) patients during the development of the study. Nineteen patients with previous diagnosis of SBP undergoing secondary prophylaxis and 22 patients with insufficient PPI data were further excluded. Of 258 patients with ascites, 151 used PPIs, and 34 developed SBP (22.5%). Among 107 non-users of PPIs, 23 developed SBP (21.5%) (HR = 1.44, 95%CI: 0.85-2.47, P = 0.176). The median follow-up time of patients using PPI was 27 mo vs 32 mo for non-users. Univariate analysis of the risk factors associated with the development of SBP revealed a significant association of SPB with the severity of liver disease according to the Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) score. Multivariate analysis confirmed that CTP score was the only independent variable influencing the occurrence of SBP. Survival at 60 mo (Kaplan-Meier analysis) was similar in users and non-users of PPI, independently of the presence of SBP (58.4% vs 62.7% respectively, P = 0.66). For patients with SBP, survival at 60 mo was 55.1%, vs 61.7% in patients without SBP (P = 0.34).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the rate of SBP was not significantly different in users or non-users of PPIs in this cohort of cirrhotic with ascites.

Epigastric pain syndrome accompanying pancreatic enzyme abnormalities was overlapped with early chronic pancreatitis using endosonography

There was not available data about the overlap between functional dyspepsia (FD) and pancreatic diseases. We aimed to determine whether epigastric pain syndrome (EPS) accompanying with pancreatic enzyme abnormalities were associated with early chronic pancreatitis proposed by Japan Pancreas Society (JPS) using endosonography. We enrolled 99 consecutive patients presenting with typical symptoms of FD, including patients with postprandial distress syndrome (PDS) (n = 59), EPS with pancreatic enzyme abnormalities (n = 41) and EPS without pancreatic enzyme abnormalities (n = 42) based on Rome III criteria. Gastric motility was evaluated using the ¹³C-acetate breath test. Early chronic pancreatitis was detected by endosonography and graded from 0 to 7. The ratio of female patients among EPS patients (34/41) with pancreatic enzyme abnormalities was significantly (p = 0.0018) higher than the ratio of female EPS patients (20/42) without it. Postprandial abdominal distention and physical component summary (PCS) scores in EPS patients with pancreatic enzyme abnormalities were significantly disturbed compared to those in EPS patients without it. Interestingly, AUC₅ and AUC₁₅ values (24.85 ± 1.31 and 56.11 ± 2.51, respectively) in EPS patients with pancreatic enzyme abnormalities were also significantly (p = 0.002 and p = 0.001, respectively) increased compared to those (19.75 ± 1.01 and 47.02 ± 1.99, respectively) in EPS patients without it. Overall, 64% of EPS patients with pancreatic enzyme abnormalities were diagnosed by endosonography as having concomitant early chronic pancreatitis proposed by JPS. Further studies are warranted to clarify how EPS patients with pancreatic enzyme abnormalities were associated with early chronic pancreatitis proposed by JPS.

Gastric emptying after artificial ulceration in rats: differences due to the site of the ulcer and the effects of prokinetic drugs

Background This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the position of an acetic acid-induced gastric ulcer and the effects of prokinetic drugs on gastric emptying. Materials and Methods Male Sprague-Dawley rats were used in this study. Acetic acid ulcers were induced either in the region between the fundus and pylorus on the anterior wall of the stomach or in the glandular region on the greater curvature of the stomach to determine whether there were regional differences in the effect of the ulcers. Gastric emptying was evaluated with a breath test using [1-¹³C] acetic acid. In addition, the effects of the prokinetic drugs, metoclopramide and mosapride, on gastric emptying were also evaluated. Results Acetic acid induced ulcers in the region between the fundus and pylorus on the anterior wall of the stomach significantly delayed gastric emptying as compared with control rats, but not the acetic acid induced ulcers in the glandular region on the greater curvature of the stomach. Metoclopramide and mosapride did not improve the delayed gastric emptying even at doses that enhanced gastric emptying in normal rats. Conclusion These findings show that gastric emptying is influenced by the position of the ulcer and the region between the fundus and pylorus on the anterior wall plays an important role in gastric emptying. Moreover, it was found that metoclopramide and mosapride do not improve the delayed gastric emptying caused by acetic acid ulcers induced on the anterior wall in the region between the fundus and pylorus.

Gender Difference of Gastric Emptying in Healthy Volunteers and Patients with Functional Dyspepsia

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Delayed gastric emptying is one of the reasons why functional dyspepsia (FD) occurs. The 13C-acetate breath test is widely used to evaluate gastric emptying. Nevertheless, the standard value of 13C-acetate breath test has not taken into account the gender difference of gastric emptying among healthy individuals. The main aim of this study was to readjust the standard value of 13C-acetate breath test in the light of gender differences. In addition, we clarified the prevalence and clinical characteristics of delayed gastric emptying in patients with FD using the modified standard values of 13C-acetate breath test.

METHODS

Fifty-two healthy individuals and 126 patients with patients with FD were enrolled. Gastric emptying was evaluated by the 13C-acetate breath test. The cut-off points of Tmax for the diagnosis of delayed gastric emptying were determined on the basis of results from healthy individuals making a distinction of genders. Gastroesophageal reflux symptoms, dyspeptic symptoms, scores of anxiety and depression, age, body mass index (BMI), smoking and alcohol consumption were compared between the delayed gastric emptying group and the non-delayed gastric emptying group.

RESULTS

Since gastric emptying was delayed in healthy women compared with that in healthy men (Tmax, 53.6 ± 19.3 vs. 42.7 ± 16.9 min, p = 0.04), we set the cut-off points of Tmax at 60 min in men and at 75 min in women. In patients with FD, the prevalence of delayed gastric emptying was not different between men and women with the modified standard values of 13C-acetate breath test. (31.0 vs. 27.4%, p = 0.68). BMI was lower in the delayed gastric emptying group than in the non-delayed group among the male patients. Reflux symptoms were more severe in delayed gastric emptying group than in the non-delayed group among the female patients.

CONCLUSION

The standard values of 13C-acetate breath test should be modified bearing the gender difference in mind. It provides us more appropriate information to understand the mechanisms of FD.

Impact of long-term gastric acid suppression on spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in patients with advanced decompensated liver cirrhosis

OBJECTIVE

Recent studies have presented conflicting results on the association between gastric acid suppression and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP). The long-term effects of gastric acid suppression on SBP in cirrhotic patients remain unclear. This study evaluated the risk of SBP in advanced decompensated cirrhotic patients with long-term gastric acid suppression.

METHODS

Using the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database, we identified 4788 patients with decompensated cirrhosis from 1998 to 2011. The SBP incidence rate was compared among proton pump inhibitor (PPI), H2-receptor antagonist (H2RA), and control cohorts. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regressions analysis was conducted to confirm the association between gastric acid suppression and SBP.

RESULTS

Totally, 4788 patients were analyzed: 1870 in the PPI cohort, 1728 in the H2RA cohort, and 1190 in the control cohort. The overall incidences of SBP were 16.8, 11.9, and 9.80 per 1000 person-years in the PPI, H2RA, and control cohorts, respectively. The adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) of SBP during the follow-up period was 1.16- (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.72-1.86) and 1.00-fold (95% CI, 0.63-1.57) higher in the PPI and H2RA cohorts, respectively, than in the control cohort; the result was non-significant. Compared with the control cohort, patients with >180days of PPI therapy had significantly higher risks of SBP, with an aHR of 2.28 (95% CI, 1.37-3.78).

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term PPI use is associated with a high risk of SBP in advanced decompensated cirrhotic patients. Well-designed prospective studies are necessary to evaluate the safety of long-term PPI use in such patients.

Change in gastric emptying eight weeks after endoscopic submucosal dissection in patients with early gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Gastric emptying after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for early gastric cancer is not clear. The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in gastric emptying from before ESD to 8 weeks after ESD.

METHODS

In total, 54 patients with early gastric cancer were enrolled in this study. A breath test with carbon 13 ((13)C) was conducted before ESD and at 1 and 8 weeks after ESD. The Tlag and T1/2 values were analyzed at each time point. The primary outcomes were the changes in the Tlag and T1/2 values from before ESD to 1 and 8 weeks after ESD. The secondary outcomes were the factors associated with the changes in the Tlag and T1/2 values.

RESULTS

Gastric emptying was delayed at 1 and 8 weeks after ESD compared with before ESD (Tlag P = 0.002, P < 0.001; T1/2 P = 0.005, P = 0.001, respectively). The changes in the Tlag and T1/2 values from before ESD to 1 week after ESD were greater for proximal stomach lesions than for distal stomach lesions (P = 0.028, P < 0.001). Proximal stomach lesions were identified as the significant factor that influenced changes in the Tlag and T1/2 values from before ESD to 1 week after ESD in the multivariate analyses (Tlag P = 0.003, T1/2 P = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

ESD induced delayed gastric emptying until 8 weeks after ESD. Proximal stomach lesions were also associated with decreased emptying 1 week after ESD.

Evaluation of periesophageal nerve injury after pulmonary vein isolation using the (13)C-acetate breath test

Background

Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) has become an important option for treating patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Periesophageal nerve (PEN) injury after PVI causes pyloric spasms and gastric hypomotility. This study aimed to clarify the impact of PVI on gastric motility and assess the prevalence of gastric hypomotility after PVI.

Methods

Thirty consecutive patients with AF underwent PVI under luminal esophageal temperature (LET) monitoring. The ¹³C-acetate breath test was conducted before and after the procedure for all patients (PVI group). Gastric emptying was evaluated using the time to peak concentration of ¹³CO₂ (T_max). This test was also conducted in another 20 patients who underwent catheter ablation procedures other than PVI (control group).

Results

The number of patients with abnormal T_max (≥75 min) increased from seven (23%) to 13 (43%) and from three (15%) to five (25%) after the procedure in the PVI group and control group, respectively. The mean T_max was longer after PVI than before PVI (64±14 min vs. 57±15 min, p=0.006), whereas there was no significant difference before and after the procedure in the control group. However, no significant difference in ΔT_max was observed between the two groups (p=0.27). No patients suffered from symptomatic gastric hypomotility.

Conclusions

Asymptomatic gastric hypomotility occurred more often after PVI. However, the average impact of PVI on gastric motility was minimal.

PPI versus Histamine H2 Receptor Antagonists for Prevention of Upper Gastrointestinal Injury Associated with Low-Dose Aspirin: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

This study compared proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and histamine H2 receptor antagonists (H₂RAs) for prevention of low-dose aspirin (LDA)-related gastrointestinal (GI) erosion, ulcer and bleeding. Electronic databases including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, and WanFang Data were searched from the date of their establishment to December 31, 2013. Randomized controlled trials comparing PPIs and H₂RAs for prevention of GI injury associated with low-dose aspirin (LDA) were collected. Two reviewers independently abstracted studies and patient characteristics and appraised study quality using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.1 software. We included nine RCTs involving 1047 patients. The meta-analysis showed that PPIs were superior to H₂RAs for prevention of LDA-associated GI erosion/ulcer [odds ratio (OR=0.28, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.16–0.50] and bleeding (OR=0.28, 95% CI: 0.14–0.59). In conclusion, PPIs were superior to H₂RAs for prevention of LDA-related GI erosion/ulcer and bleeding. Higher quality, large, multicenter RCTs are needed to demonstrate the preventive effect of the two acid-suppressive drugs.

Domperidone for delayed gastric emptying in lung transplant recipients with and without gastroesophageal reflux

Evidence demonstrates a link between gastroesophageal reflux disease and chronic allograft dysfunction in lung transplant recipients. Delayed gastric emptying plays an important role in the occurrence of gastroesophageal reflux disease, with limited therapeutic options available for treatment. This retrospective observational study reports the use of domperidone in the management of delayed gastric emptying in lung transplant recipients. All patients who underwent lung transplant at our institution from 2007 to 2011 were reviewed and patients who were treated with domperidone were identified. Clinical symptoms and results of gastric emptying studies before and after initiation of domperidone were documented. QTc intervals were compared from before to after domperidone treatment at 3 months and at 1 year. Weight and dose-normalized calcineurin inhibitor troughs were evaluated before and 2 weeks after domperidone treatment was started. Of 82 patients, 24% (n = 20) had documented delayed gastric emptying and 35% (n = 29) had documented gastroesophageal reflux disease. Twelve of the 20 patients with delayed gastric emptying started treatment with domperidone. All patients responded symptomatically and 6 patients with gastric emptying studies before and after domperidone had documented improvement. No adverse effects were observed in any patients treated with domperidone. Results indicate that domperidone can be used safely and may improve symptoms related to delayed gastric emptying in lung transplant recipients.

Prospective randomized clinical trial of a change in gastric emptying and nutritional status after a pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy: comparison between an antecolic and a vertical retrocolic duodenojejunostomy

BACKGROUND

Although an antecolic duodenojejunostomy was reported to reduce post-operative delayed gastric emptying (DGE) compared with a retrocolic duodenojejunostomy after a pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy (PPPD), the long-term effects of these procedures have rarely been studied. The aim of this prospective, randomized, clinical trial was to investigate the influence of the reconstruction route on post-operative gastric emptying and nutrition.

METHODS

Reconstruction was performed in 116 patients with an antecolic duodenojejunostomy (A group, n = 58) or a vertical retrocolic duodenojejunostomy (VR group, n = 58). Post-operative complications, including DGE, gastric emptying variables assessed by (13) C-acetate breath test and nutrition, were compared between the two groups for 1 year post-operatively.

RESULTS

The incidence of DGE was not significantly different between the procedures (A group: 12.1%; VR group: 20.7%, P = 0.316). At post-operative month 1, gastric emptying was prolonged in the VR versus the A group but not significantly so. At post-operative month 6, gastric emptying was accelerated significantly in the A versus the VR group. Post-operative weight recovery was significantly better in the VR versus the A group at post-operative month 12 (percentage of pre-operative weight, A group: 93.8 ± 1.2%; VR group: 98.5 ± 1.3%, P = 0.015).

CONCLUSIONS

A vertical retrocolic duodenojejunostomy was an acceptable procedure for the lower incidence of DGE and may contribute to better weight gain affected by moderate gastric emptying.

Sleep disorders in functional dyspepsia and future therapy

Sleep disorder is a common medical problem. Sleep disorder has been associated with several diseases, including pulmonary disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and fibromyalgia. Interest in sleep phenomenology and gastrointestinal functioning has recently increased, because sleep disorder causes significant morbidity, as evidenced by the increased need for general medical and mental health treatment for emotional problems. A number of studies have found an association between sleep disorders and functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. Although arousal from sleep serves several protective roles, such as increase in the speed of esophageal clearance and in airway refluxes to prevent aspiration, awakening from sleep unfortunately induces impairment of sleep quality. Some investigations about the relationship between psychogenic factors and gut motility are controversial. In addition, reports of alterations in gut motility during sleep have also been contradictory. We have evaluated sleep disorder in functional dyspepsia (FD) patients using Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) score. In our recent data, PSQI score of FD patients was significantly higher compared to that in healthy volunteers. Another study has reported that the distribution of subjects who thought that they got enough sleep was significantly lower for the FD/irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) subjects than for control subjects. Several studies have reported that anti-acid therapy and prokinetic agents are effective for certain FD patients. In addition, previous study has reported tricyclic antidepressants (TCA) drugs are effective for some FD patients. Finally, new drug, actiamide, a muscarinic antagonist and cholinesterase inhibitor, significantly improves Postprandial Distress Syndrome (PDS) symptoms. It might be critical issues for determination of precise mechanism for functional gastrointestinal disorders to clarify the relationship between gut motility and sleep disorders.

Nizatidine ameliorates gastroparesis in Parkinson's disease: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

The objective of this work was to perform an open trial of the effects of nizatidine (NZT), a selective histamine H2-receptor antagonist and a cholinomimetic, on gastroparesis in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients, using objective parameters given by a gastric emptying study using a (13) C-sodium acetate expiration breath test.

METHODS

Twenty patients with PD were enrolled in the study. There were 13 men and 7 women; aged 68.0 ± 7.72 years; disease duration 5.50 ± 3.62 years. All patients underwent the breath test and a gastrointestinal questionnaire before and after 3 months of administration of NZT at 300 mg/day. Statistical analysis was performed by Student t test.

RESULTS

NZT was well tolerated by all patients and none had abdominal pain or other adverse effects. NZT significantly shortened Tmax ((13) C) (the peak time of the (13) C-dose-excess curve) (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Although this is a pilot study, we found a significant shortening of gastric emptying time after administration of NZT in PD patients.

Impact of sleep disorders in Japanese patients with functional dyspepsia (FD): nizatidine improves clinical symptoms, gastric emptying and sleep disorders in FD patients

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The association between functional dyspepsia (FD) and sleep disorders has yet to be studied in detail. The aim of this study is to evaluate the risk factors associated with sleep disorders and the clinical response to nizatidine therapy for sleep disorders in Rome III-based FD patients.

METHODS

We enrolled 94 FD patients and 52 healthy volunteers. We used Rome III criteria to evaluate upper abdominal symptoms, and the Self-Rating Questionnaire for Depression scores to determine depression status. Sleep disorder was evaluated using Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores, and degree of anxiety by the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Gastric motility was evaluated. Thirty-four FD patients were treated with nizatidine (300 mg/day) or placebo for 4 weeks in a crossover trial. The primary end point of this study was to determine whether nizatidine could improve clinical symptoms and sleep disorders in FD patients.

RESULTS

The global PSQI score for FD patients was significantly (P < 0.001) higher compared with healthy volunteers. There were significant correlations between global PSQI scores and total Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale and Self-Rating Questionnaire for Depression scores (P < 0.001, P < 0.0001, respectively) in FD patients than in healthy volunteers. We found significant relationships between subjective sleep quality and both Tmax and T1/2 values in FD patients. Nizatidine significantly improved certain clinical symptoms, gastric emptying, and global PSQI score compared with placebo treatment.

CONCLUSION

Sleep disorders in FD patients correlated significantly with both clinical symptoms of dyspepsia and depression compared with healthy volunteers. Nizatidine significantly improved gastroesophageal reflux symptoms, gastric emptying, and sleep disorders in FD patients.

Stable isotope breath tests for assessing gastric emptying: A comprehensive review

A stable isotope ([(13)C]) breath test is a promising method for assessing gastric emptying, but it has not been pervasive yet in Japan. We think that there are some barriers to its popularization, including the uncertainty concerning its theoretical backgrounds, the ambiguity of analyzing and interpreting the data, and the lack of standard protocols for breath sampling. The aim of the present review is to break through these barriers. We hope this article could make the [(13)C]-gastric breath test more maneuverable for and more accessible to researchers and clinicians.

Effects of Histamine-2 Receptor Antagonists and Proton Pump Inhibitors on the Rate of Gastric Emptying: A Crossover Study Using a Continuous Real-Time C Breath Test (BreathID System)

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The effects of Histamine-2 receptor antagonists and proton pump inhibitors on the gastrointestinal motility have not yet been sufficiently investigated. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of intravenous bolus administration of famotidine and omeprazole on the rate of gastric emptying using the continuous (13)C breath test (BreathID system, Exalenz Bioscience Ltd, Israel).

METHODS

Twelve healthy male volunteers participated in this randomized, 3-way crossover study. After fasting overnight, the subjects were randomly assigned to receive 20 mg of famotidine, 20 mg of omeprazole or 20 mL of saline alone by intravenous bolus injection before a test meal (200 kcal per 200 mL, containing 100 mg of (13)C-acetate). Gastric emptying was monitored for 4 hours after the ingestion of test meal by the (13)C-acetic acid breath test performed using the BreathID system.

RESULTS

No significant differences in the calculated parameters, namely, the T(1/2), T(lag), GEC, β and κ, were observed among the 3 test conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

The study revealed that intravenous administration of gastric acid suppressant drugs had no significant influence on the rate of gastric emptying in comparison with that of saline alone as a placebo. Our results indicating the absence of any effect of either famotidine or omeprazole on accelerating the rate of gastric emptying suggest that both medications can be administered safely to patients suffering from hemorrhagic peptic ulcers who need to be kept nil by mouth from the viewpoint of possible acceleration of gastrointestinal motility in the clinical setting.

Association between acid suppressive therapy and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in cirrhotic patients with ascites

OBJECTIVE

Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) or histamine-2 receptor antagonist (H2RA) therapy may cause intestinal bacterial overgrowth and translocation. Therefore, acid suppressive therapy may increase the risk of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) in cirrhotic patients with ascites.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 176 cirrhotic patients with ascites who underwent diagnostic paracentesis between September 2004 and April 2009 were included in the analysis. Patients with gastrointestinal hemorrhage and/or antibiotic therapy within 2 weeks prior to hospital admission were excluded. SBP was defined as ≥250/mm(3) polymorphonuclear white blood cells with or without a positive culture from the ascitic fluid. Eighty-three patients (mean age 56.1 years, 63 males) had SBP and 93 (mean age 54.7 years, 75 males) did not.

RESULTS

On the multivariate analysis, a Child-Pugh class C (OR = 2.890, 95% CI 1.443-5.786; p = 0.003), high MELD scores (≥ 20, OR = 3.540, 95% CI 1.155-10.849; p = 0.027), and PPI use (OR = 3.443, 95% CI 1.164-10.188; p = 0.025) were risk factors for SBP. H2RA was not associated with SBP.

CONCLUSIONS

PPI use, as well as Child-Pugh class C and high MELD scores, was an independent risk factor for the development of SBP in cirrhotic patients with ascites. Further prospective studies are warranted to clarify this issue.

Effects of proton pump inhibitors on gastric emptying: a systematic review

The proton pump inhibitor (PPI) is widely used for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease, peptic ulcer diseases, and functional dyspepsia. The pathogenesis of these acid-related and/or functional upper gastrointestinal disorders is potentially associated with abnormal gastric emptying. To date, variable effects of PPIs on gastric emptying have been reported. Therefore, it is relevant to gather and analyze published information on this topic. A systematic literature search has been performed, showing that the delaying effect of PPIs on gastric emptying of solid meals is consistent, whereas the effect of PPIs on the emptying of liquids is inconsistent. The underlying mechanisms whereby PPIs may affect gastric emptying have been discussed, most of which still remain hypothetic. Gastric emptying of solids involves a process of peptic hydrolysis. PPIs impair the hydrolytic digestion by inhibiting acid-dependent peptic activity, thereby delaying the solid emptying. Gastric emptying of liquids largely depends on volume and energy density of intragastric contents. PPIs variably modify the volume and the energy density by reducing gastric fluid secretion, thereby modifying the liquid emptying in an unpredictable manner. Hypergastrinemia has been considered to delay gastric emptying, but it seems of minor importance in the regulation of gastric emptying during PPI use. The delayed emptying of solids due to PPI therapy may have clinical implications in the management of gastroesophageal reflux disease, functional dyspepsia, as well as diabetes.

Gastric emptying of liquid and solid meals at various temperatures: effect of meal temperature for gastric emptying

BACKGROUND

Patients with functional dyspepsia frequently show delayed gastric emptying, and dietary advice is frequently given for its improvement. If meal temperature influences gastric emptying, advice regarding the meal temperature may become a possible component of dietary therapy. However, little information exists concerning the thermal effect of meals on gastric emptying. The aim of this study was to determine the thermal effect of liquid and solid meals on gastric emptying.

METHODS

The gastric emptying of liquid and solid test meals was examined in healthy volunteers (liquid, n = 25, mean age = 35.7 +/- 9.6 years, male-to-female ratio = 22:3; solid, n = 25, mean age = 35.2 +/- 8.8 years, male-to-female ratio = 20:5). Gastric emptying after the ingestion of liquid or solid meals at three different temperatures (4, 37, and 60 degrees C) was investigated with the [(13)C]-labeled acetate breath test. The lag phase time (T (max-calc)) and the half-emptying time (T (1/2)) were calculated from the (13)CO(2) breath excretion curve as indices of gastric emptying.

RESULTS

The values of T (max-calc) at 60 degrees C with both the liquid and solid meals were significantly smaller than those at 37 degrees C (P < 0.05). However, there was no difference in the T (1/2) values. In the analysis of the percent excretion of (13)CO(2) in 1 h (% dose/h) data with the liquid meal test in the earlier phase within 30 min, significantly larger values were found at 60 degrees C than at the other temperatures. These findings suggest that a hot meal significantly accelerates gastric emptying.

CONCLUSIONS

Meal temperature may be considered as a component of dietary therapy for patients with functional dyspepsia.

Effects of the H2-receptor antagonist ranitidine on gastric motor function after a liquid meal in healthy humans

OBJECTIVE

Studies on animals have shown that histamine may be involved in the regulation of gastrointestinal smooth muscle tone. However, the role of histamine in the regulation of human gastric motor function is not clear. This study examined the effect of ranitidine, an H(2)-receptor antagonist, on gastric volume and gastric emptying after a liquid meal in healthy humans.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twelve healthy volunteers participated in a randomized crossover study with 50 mg ranitidine as a bolus intravenously versus no medication. Gastric volume at baseline was determined with single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) after intravenous injection of 99(m)Tc-pertechnetate. After ingestion of a 600-mL liquid meal radiolabelled with (111)In-diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid, dual-isotope technique with SPECT and planar imaging assessed gastric volume as well as gastric emptying.

RESULTS

Ranitidine did not change gastric volume before the meal, nor at 0 h or 1 h after it. Furthermore, ranitidine did not influence gastric retention of meal components after 0.5 h and 1 h.

CONCLUSIONS

Intravenous bolus injection of 50 mg ranitidine does not modify gastric volume or gastric emptying after a 600 mL liquid meal in healthy humans.

No relationship between plasma desacyl-ghrelin levels and rabeprazole-related delay in gastric emptying : controlled study in healthy volunteers

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Recent studies have indicated that rabeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor, delays gastric emptying. However, the mechanism of action remains unclear. We conducted this study to clarify whether desacyl-ghrelin (the inactive form of the endogenous growth hormone secretagogue receptor ghrelin) is involved in rabeprazole-induced changes in gastric motor function.

METHODS

Twelve healthy males underwent (13)C-acetate breath tests to evaluate gastric emptying of a liquid meal twice after administration of rabeprazole 20 mg/day for 3 days or no medication (control). Gastric emptying was evaluated by two parameters: half-emptying time and time to peak (13)CO(2) excretion. Plasma desacyl-ghrelin levels were measured in blood samples collected at three time points: immediately pre-test and 1 and 2 hours after ingestion of the test meal.

RESULTS

Rabeprazole significantly delayed gastric emptying of the liquid meal. However, plasma desacyl-ghrelin levels after ingestion of the liquid meal showed little difference before or after rabeprazole administration.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that desacyl-ghrelin was not associated with changes in gastric emptying caused by rabeprazole.

Rabeprazole: a second-generation proton pump inhibitor in the treatment of acid-related disease

Rabeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) presenting a very advantageous pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic profile over older PPIs. In particular, this drug has a very fast onset of action, due to a short activation time and a very high pKa, and may therefore be defined as a 'second generation' PPI. The aim of this article is to provide an update on the pharmacology and clinical profile of rabeprazole and its use in acid-related disorders, with a particular focus on its role in gastroesophageal reflux disease; in the treatment and prevention of duodenal and gastric ulcers and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome; in the therapy of the extraesophageal manifestations of gastroesophageal reflux disease (in particular the respiratory and ear, nose and throat ones); and in the eradication of Helicobacter pylori.

Nizatidine and gastric emptying in functional dyspepsia

In clinical practice, H2-receptor antagonists, including nizatidine, in addition to their use in the treatment of peptic ulcer and gastroesophageal reflux, are also useful in alleviating dyspeptic symptoms. Patients with functional dyspepsia show a tendency to delayed gastric emptying. Results of preliminary studies have demonstrated that nizatidine has a prokinetic effect due to its cholinergic properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of nizatidine on gastric emptying in patients with functional dyspepsia. Sixteen patients with dyspeptic symptoms referred for gastroscopy by primary care physicians were enrolled in this randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind cross-over study. They received nizatidine 150 mg twice daily or placebo for 2 months. After a 1-month washout period, the 2-month treatment was repeated, with these patients acting as their own controls. Gastric emptying was measured by scintigraphy, and dyspeptic symptoms and quality of life were evaluated at the end of both treatment periods. Gastric emptying of solids during nizatidine therapy was prolonged (T1/2 110.1 +/- 76.7 vs. 65.6 +/- 23.2 min, P = 0.03), but nizatidine had no effect on gastric emptying of liquids. Nizatidine improved the symptom scores and seven of eight aspects of quality of life - but not significantly. In conclusion, nizatidine decreases the gastric emptying rate of solids without having a significant effect on symptoms or quality of life in functional dyspepsia.