Evaluation of possible mechanism of anti-ulcerogenic activity of UL-409, a herbal preparation.

UL-409, a herbal preparation was investigated for its anti-ulcerogenic activity and possible mechanism of action in different experimental models. Oral administration of UL-409 at a dose of 600 mg/kg significantly reduced the volume of gastric secretion, total acidity and free acidity in aspirin + pylorus-ligated rats. The drug appeared to strengthen the gastric mucosal defense mechanism by significantly increasing the total carbohydrate:protein ratio in aspirin + pylorus-ligated rats. The major mechanism involved appears to be due to promotion of mucosal protection by augmenting gastric mucin activity. Pre-treatment with UL-409 showed inhibition of alcohol-induced contraction of isolated rat fundus preparation which was reversed by indomethacin suggesting a possible involvement of the cyclo-oxygenase system.