TRC: D2 antagonists in GI

anti-emetic D2-antagonists

D2 antagonists in GI

One class of drugs that is used to control motility in the gastrointestinal tract are The D2-antagonists. These drugs (such as metoclopramide and domperidone) block inhibitory D2 receptors on myenteric neurons, thereby increasing the release of acetylcholine from nerve terminals. This increase in acetylcholine can stimulate muscarinic-3 receptors, and increase muscular contractions. Both these drugs antagonise the D2 receptors located in the GI tract and thus increase gastric emptying, making them useful for the treatment of diabetic gastroparesis and gastro-oesophageal reflux.

Metoclopramide and domperidone also antagonise D2 receptors in the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ), thereby decreasing emesis. However, domperidone does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and thus rarely causes extrapyramidal side effects. (note that the CTZ is in a part of the brain that is not protected by the BBB). In contrast to domperidone, which has almost pure D2 antagonist activity, metoclompramide also activates 5-HT4 receptors (see 5-HT4 agonists).

D2 antagonists have the most clinical relevance in:

Extra info: Most systemic D2 inhibition of acetylcholine-stimulated motility occurs in the upper GI. D2 antagonists are therefore not useful for treating problems in the lower GI.

Option explanation:

small bowel dysmotility

colonic inertia

vomiting

diarrhoea

The antiemetic effect of D2-antagonists is mainly due to

Extra info: Although D2-antagonists have some influence over all the given answers, it is believed that their effects on the chemo-receptor trigger zone are most important

Option explanation:

blockade of central dopamine receptors

D2-antagonism at esophago-gastric junction

improved gastroduodenal coordination

enhances gastric emptying

anti-emetic D2-antagonists

D2 antagonists in GI

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