THE USE OF GLUCAGON FOR THE UPPER GASTOR INTESTINAL RADIOGRAPHY IN THE AGED

A Double Blind And Grossover Clinical Trial

Abstract

Two kinds of duuble blind and crossover clinical trials were performed in order to determine the usefulness of glucagon for upper gastrointestinal radiography. 9 healthy volunteers received inactiveplacebo and 1 mg of glucagon intramuscularly preceding the radiographic examination of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Glucagon showed a significantly inhibitory effect on the motility of the gastrointestinal tract. Subsequently, 28 aged subjects ranging from 64 to 90 years (average: 77 years) were alternately given 1 mg of glucagon and 20 mg of butylscopolamine bromide intramuscularly prior to the upper gastrointestinal radiography. When glucagon was given, there was a marked inhibitory effect on the motility of the gastrointestinal tract equivalent to butylscopolamine bromide, yet with fewer side effects. It is concluded that the use of glucagon provides a safer premedication in the examination of the upper gastrorintestinal tract than butylscopolamine bromide in the aged.