Multiple-Balloon-Kymograph Recording of the Effect of Banthine, Belladonna and Placebos on Upper-Intestinal Motility

RECENT studies have demonstrated that Banthine, β-diethylaminoethyl xanthine-9-carboxylate methobromide, has a definite action on gastrointestinal function. This new drug acts chiefly as a blocking agent on the parasympathetic nervous system and, to a lesser degree, on the sympathetic nervous system.1 In dosages in the toxic range it exerts a curare-like action on skeletal muscle. In man, Banthine has been found to retard gastric emptying, decrease contractions of the small and large intestine and diminish the volume of gastric secretion.2 3 4 When administered therapeutically, present observations indicate that Banthine is effective in the treatment of patients with peptic ulcer and in certain . . .