Effects of bile acids, antacids, and cholestyramine on transmural electrical potential difference in man.

The effect of glycocholic acid (GCA) on functional changes of the gastric mucosal barrier was examined by measurement of transmural gastric potential difference (PD) in humans in the presence and absence of cholestyramine and of A1(OH)3-containing antacids possessing potent bile acid binding properties. Intagastric instillation of GCA induced reduction of PD which could be prevented by the more potent buffering Mg-A1(OH)3-containing antacid, but not by cholestyramine or the less potent A1(OH)3-containing antacid. It is concluded that for the prevention of bile acid induced damage of gastric mucosa potent antacids are superior to potent bile acid binding agents loosing the binding properties at low pH-values.