Aluminium hydroxide inhibits acetylsalicylic acid-induced gastric erosions in cats with Heidenhain-pouch.

The effect of Al(OH)3 was investigated on the gastric bleeding induced by acetylsalicylic acid + HCl. Cats provided with Heidenhain pouches were used. The pouch had vascular connections to the main stomach. Instillation of acidified acetylsalicylic acid into the pouch caused a marked increase in its blood content indicating the development of hemorrhagic mucosal damages. The blood loss was totally abolished by administration of Al(OH)3 into the main stomach. We, therefore, conclude that Al(OH)3 induced an enhanced release of PGE2 into the submucosa. PGE2 reached the pouch via connecting vessels originated from the main stomach. The results indicate that certain antacids induce the release of prostaglandins not only into the gastric lumen but also in the submucosa.