Prokinetics in gastroparesis

Abstract

Prokinetic agents are medications that enhance coordinated gastrointestinal motility and transit of content in the gastrointestinal tract, mainly by amplifying and coordinating the gastrointestinal muscular contractions. In addition to dietary therapy, prokinetic therapy should be considered as a means to improve gastric emptying and symptoms of gastroparesis, balancing benefits and risks of treatment. In the United States, metoclopramide remains the first-line prokinetic therapy, because it is the only approved medication for gastroparesis. Newer agents are being developed for the management of gastroparesis. This article provides detailed information about prokinetic agents for the treatment of gastroparesis.

Keywords: Domperidone; Erythromycin; Ghrelin; Metoclopramide; Pharmacology; Pyridostigmine; Receptor; Relamorelin; Serotonin.