Effect of metiamide, a histamine H2-receptor antagonist on reserpine-induced gastric ulcers and acid secretion.

The effect of metiamide on reserpine-induced gastric ulcers and on gastric secretion during 6 h after ip administration was investigated in conscious intact rats and in rats with chronic gastric fistula. Reserpine, 3 mg/kg ip increased substantially the concentration of gastric acid in the first 4 h. Metiamide given every 3 h in a low dose (0.01 mumol/kg) intensified reserpine-induced gastric ulcers and also significantly increased the reserpine-induced acid concentration and output. In larger doses, (50-100 mumol/kg) metiamide considerably diminished gastric ulcer development and decreased gastric acid concentration. Given every 2 h metiamide in doses of 50-100 mumol/kg almost completely abolished gastric ulcer formation and markedly reduced the secretion of gastric acid in reserpinized rats. Anti-ulcer effect of metiamide was stronger than its antisecretory action, suggesting also the antiulcer action of metiamide other than inhibition of acid secretion. The results suggest that in conscious rats histamine H2-receptors are involved in reserpine-induced gastric ulcer development and gastric acid secretion. The antiulcer effect of metiamide may in part depend on its antisecretory action.