Recent research suggests that disturbances in gallbladder mucosal functions are important in the initiation of acute cholecystitis and its progression. Prostaglandins have pathophysiological significance and prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors such as indomethacin inhibit fluid secretion by gallbladder mucosa, reduce distension and relieve pain. Nerves in the gallbladder wall are involved in disturbed mucosal function, and the benefits of opiates may derive from reduction of active fluid secretion in the inflamed and obstructed gallbladder as well as from central analgesic effects.