Prokinetics stimulate the increase of ghrelin in mice.

OBJECTIVES: Intestinal motility is regulated by several neurotransmitters and neuropeptides including dopamine and acetylcholine as well as ghrelin. Metoclopramide and domperidone are long-standing treatment options for dysmotility, and erythromycin is suggested in selected patients. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effects of mentioned prokinetics on ghrelin levels.

METHODS: Serum ghrelin levels were estimated by using enzyme-linked immunoassay following a single administration of domperidone, metoclopramide, or erythromycin.

RESULTS: Our results showed that both antidopaminergic and cholinergic prokinetics increase the circulating ghrelin levels. There was no significant difference between enteral and parenteral control groups. Also, statistical analysis revealed that neither prokinetic was superior to the other in regard to its ghrelin stimulating effect.

CONCLUSION: Conclusively, the present study demonstrated that the circulating levels of ghrelin increase by the administration of antidopaminergic and cholinergic prokinetics. Hence, this effect on ghrelin may partly be responsible for the motility‑stimulating actions of domperidone, metoclopramide, and erythromycin (Fig. 2, Ref. 39).