Prokinetics in the treatment of acute intestinal pseudo-obstruction

IDrugs. 2004 Feb;7(2):160-5.

Abstract

Acute colonic pseudo-obstruction (Ogilvie's syndrome) is characterized by an acute obstruction of the large bowel that is unrelated to mechanical causes. The evidence that cholinesterase inhibitors are effective in relieving acute colonic pseudo-obstruction raised interest in the pharmacological management of this condition. This review analyzes the pharmacological treatment of patients with Ogilvie's syndrome. Intravenous neostigmine is the best pharmacological treatment, leading to rapid colonic decompression. New colokinetic agents, including 5-HT(4) receptor agonists and motilides, may represent other useful therapeutic options for Ogilvie's syndrome.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cholinesterase Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Endoscopy, Digestive System
  • Gastrointestinal Motility / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Pseudo-Obstruction / drug therapy*
  • Intestinal Pseudo-Obstruction / etiology
  • Intestinal Pseudo-Obstruction / physiopathology
  • Intestinal Pseudo-Obstruction / surgery
  • Serotonin Receptor Agonists / therapeutic use*
  • Stimulation, Chemical

Substances

  • Cholinesterase Inhibitors
  • Serotonin Receptor Agonists