Effect of a novel prokinetic drug, R093877, on gastrointestinal transit in healthy volunteers

Abstract

Background-Stronger prokinetic agents which specifically enhance transit in different parts of the gut are required. R093877 is a novel 5-HT4 agonist prokinetic compound which is chemically related to cisapride but believed to have greater effect on colonic activity. Aims- To evaluate the effects of R093877 on bowel function, upper and lower gut transit, visceral sensitivity, and sphincter function in healthy volunteers in a double blind, placebo controlled, crossover study. Methods- The study consisted of five consecutive one week periods: no drug treatment; active drug treatment with either 1 or 2 mg daily or placebo; washout; active drug or placebo; no treatment. Seventeen male subjects m..