Pentagastrin Peptide

Pentagastrin stimulates the secretion of gastric acid, pepsin and intrinsic factor in the gut. Pentagastrin binds to the cholecystokinin-B receptor, which is expressed widely in the brain. Pentagastrin is a pentapeptide having the same effects as the parent hormone gastrin I. Pentagastrin is indicated as a diagnostic aid for evaluation of gastric acid secretory function. It is effective in testing for anacidity (achlorhydria) in patients with suspected pernicious anemia, atrophic gastritis, or gastric carcinoma. It is also effective in determining the reduction in acid output after operations for peptic ulcer, such as vagotomy or gastric resection.