Effect of metoclopramide on peristalsis and antiperistalsis in isolated frog stomach and guinea-pig ileum.

The action of metoclopramide was studied on peristaltic as well as antiperistaltic activity in frog stomach and guinea-pig ileum. It was observed that metoclopramide enhances normal peristaltic activity by acting on dopamine-receptors whereas it inhibits antiperistalsis by some unknown mechanism. It is, therefore, inferred that inhibition of antiperistaltic activity might be an additional mechanism for its antiemetic effect. It also explains the pharmacological basis for its use in oesophagitis due to gastro-oesophageal reflux.