[Ceruletide--a sensible adjuvant measure in ERCP?].

The gastro-intestinal hormone Ceruletide is used for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Apart from other effects, Ceruletid brings about a relaxation of the Sphincter of Oddi. In the present double-blind study, it was examined on 70 patients whether the effect of this drug can facilitate the cannulation of the Papilla Vateri. Using a dosage of 50 ng/kg body weight Ceruletid in i.m. application the examination time required by the most experienced examiner up to the cannulation of the Papilla Vateri was shortened by half with respect to the collective control group treated with placebo. In the case of less experienced examiners, there was no statistically significant difference in the time of sondage between Ceruletid and the administration of a placebo. Clinical parameters as well as chemical parameters in the laboratory did not reveal any abnormalities. Complications or incompatibilities caused by this drug were not observed.