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Effect of an oral beta2-adrenergic agonist on lower esophageal sphincter pressure in normals and in patients with achalasia

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Abstract

The effect of the beta2-adrenergic agonist, carbuterol, was studied on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure in normals and in patients with achalasia. In normals, the mean LES pressure decreased from 23.1±6.2 mm Hg (mean±sem) to 16.0±5.0 mm Hg at a 4.0-mg dose of carbuterol (P<0.05). In patients with achalasia, the mean LES pressure decreased from 50.1±5.1 mm Hg to 22.7±2.4 mm Hg after a 4.0-mg dose of carbuterol (P<0.01). The duration of action following oral administration exceeded 90 min. These studies indicate that the LES in man has beta2-adrenergic receptors that mediate a reduction in pressure. The magnitude of LES pressure reduction in patients with achalasia suggests that this drug may be of therapeutic benefit.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Gastrointestinal Section, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Spruce Street, 19104, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

    Anthony J. DiMarino Jr MD &  Sidney Cohen MD

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  1. Anthony J. DiMarino Jr MD
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  2. Sidney Cohen MD
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DiMarino, A.J., Cohen, S. Effect of an oral beta2-adrenergic agonist on lower esophageal sphincter pressure in normals and in patients with achalasia. Digest Dis Sci 27, 1063–1066 (1982). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01391441

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01391441

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