Effects of Bethanechol, Metoclopramide, and Domperidone on Antral Contractions in Cats and Dogs

The effects of bethanechol, metoclopramide, and domperidone were examined on antral contractions in anesthetized dogs and cats. Bethanechol and metoclopramide were found to increase contractility in both the dog and cat, while domperidone did not stimulate contractions in the cat but was effective in the dog. With domperidone, unlike bethanechol and metoclopramide, changes in mean blood pressure were not produced. Our results indicate that all three of the agents examined can stimulate contractions in the antrum, but the choice of animal model is critical for the proper evaluation of the compounds.