Home Drug Guide Pentagastrin

Drug Guide

Generic Name

Pentagastrin

Brand Names Peptavlon

Classification

Therapeutic: Gastrointestinal stimulant

Pharmacological: Gastrin analog

FDA Approved Indications

Diagnostic testing of gastric acid secretion in research and certain clinical settings

Mechanism of Action

Pentagastrin mimics gastrin, stimulating the gastric, pancreatic, and biliary secretions by binding to gastrin receptors, leading to increased acid production and enzyme secretion in the stomach.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: Typically administered via intravenous injection; dosage varies based on the specific diagnostic test, commonly 50 mcg per test gegeben; follow the specific protocol for each test.

Pediatric: Use is off-label; doses are adjusted based on weight and specific clinical protocol.

Geriatric: No specific adjustment necessary, but monitor for adverse effects.

Renal Impairment: Use with caution; dosage adjustments may be necessary based on renal function.

Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; no specific dosing recommendation established.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Not applicable (used parenterally in diagnostic settings)

Distribution: Distributed in extracellular fluids; no detailed data available

Metabolism: Metabolized minimally; primarily excreted unchanged

Excretion: Excreted via kidneys

Half Life: Approximately 2 hours in healthy individuals

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to pentagastrin or related peptides.
Active gastrointestinal bleeding.
Pregnancy and lactation: Use only if clearly needed and benefits outweigh risks.

Precautions

In patients with a history of gastrointestinal perforation, acute inflammation, or malignancy of the stomach or intestines.
Monitor for hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis.

Adverse Reactions - Common

Gastrointestinal discomfort (nausea, vomiting) (Common)
Hypersensitivity reactions (rash, itching) (Uncommon)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

Anaphylactic reactions (Rare)
Severe hypersensitivity responses, including bronchospasm (Rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

None well documented; caution with concomitant use of other gastrointestinal stimulants or agents affecting gastric acid.

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Evaluate baseline gastric acid secretion, history of allergies, and contraindications.

Diagnoses:

Risk for allergic reaction
Impaired gastrointestinal function

Implementation: Administer as directed, monitor for adverse reactions, and assess gastric secretions when applicable.

Evaluation: Monitor for expected increase in gastric secretions and assess for adverse reactions.

Patient/Family Teaching

Inform about potential allergic reactions and symptoms to report immediately.
Explain the purpose of the test and what to expect during administration.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings: N/A

Genetic Factors: N/A

Lab Test Interference: May interfere with tests measuring gastric acid secretion.

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Exaggerated gastric secretion, hypersensitivity reactions.

Treatment: Supportive care; discontinue drug; manage allergic reactions appropriately.

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from light.

Stability: Stable for the duration noted in the package insert.