Metoclopramide-induced gastric emptying in patients with anorexia nervosa.

Study of gastric retention of 99mTc-labeled meal by gamma camera is a reliable technic. Patients with anorexia nervosa were found to have increased gastric retention or delayed gastric emptying of a standard meal. Administration of metoclopramide acutely enhanced gastric emptying and chronically improved the weight and gastrointestinal symptoms of patients with anorexia nervosa. The gastrointestinal symptoms most significantly improved were: intolerance to meals, postprandial epigastric pain, belching, vomiting, anorexia and early satiety. Metoclopramide should be considered as an adjunct treatment in patients with anorexia nervosa.