Pentagastrin

Pentagastrin is a synthetic polypeptide that has effects like gastrin when given parenterally.It stimulates the secretion of gastric acid, pepsin, and intrinsic factor and has been used as a diagnostic aid as the pentagastrin-stimulated calcitonin test. Pentagastrin binds to the cholecystokinin-B receptor, which is expressed widely in the brain. Activation of these receptors activates the phospholipase C second messenger system. When given intravenously it causes panic attacks.