Pentagastrin is a gastrin-like molecule used as a diagnostic aid for the evaluation of gastric acid secretory function, gastric hypersecretion, and Zollinger-Ellison tumors. A synthetic pentapeptide that mimics the actions of endogenous gastrin when given parenterally.
- Mechanism
- Curator reviewed
The exact mechanism by which pentagastrin stimulates gastric acid, pepsin, and intrinsic factor secretion is unknown; however, since pentagastrin is an analogue of natural gastrin, it is believed that it excites the oxyntic cells of the stomach to secrete to their maximum capacity. Pentagastrin stimulates pancreatic secretion, especially when administered in large intramuscular doses. Pentagastrin also increases gastrointestinal motility by a direct effect on the intestinal smooth muscle. However, it delays gastric emptying time probably by stimulation of terminal antral contractions, which enhance retropulsion.
- Primary indication
- Used as a diagnostic aid for evaluation of gastric acid secretory functionCurator reviewed · 7 structured indications
- Formula / weight
- C37H49N7O9S · 767.9 g/mol (avg)
- First approval
- Canada, 1994
- Code names
- AY-6608 · ICI 50,123
Resolves to
NEYNJQRKHLUJRU-DZUOILHNSA-NSMILESCSCC[C@H](NC(=O)[C@H](CC1=CNC2=C1C=CC=C2)NC(=O)CCNC(=O)OC(C)(C)C)C(=O)N[C@@H](CC(O)=O)C(=O)N[C@@H](CC1=CC=CC=C1)C(N)=OWhat you can answer from here — as of September 12, 2026
Which drugs share a target with Pentagastrin, and which of those have an active Phase 3 trial?
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