A longitudinal study of gastric emptying and upper gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with diabetes mellitus

Glucagon-Like Peptide Receptor Agonists Use Before Endoscopy Is Associated With Low Retained Gastric Contents: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Analysis

INTRODUCTION

While ubiquity of glucagon-like peptide receptor agonists (GLP1-RAs) is rising, guidance from the gastroenterology societies and American Society of Anesthesiologist (ASA) remains in conflict on recommendations regarding preoperative holding before endoscopy. The aim of this study was to address this by evaluating the effect of GLP1-RAs on gastric retention during upper endoscopy.

METHODS

This multicenter cross-sectional study included patients on confirmed GLP1-RAs receiving an endoscopy from 2021 to 2023. Demographics, prescribing practices, and procedure outcomes were captured. GLP1-RA management of preoperative holding was retroactively classified per ASA guidance. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to assess factors influencing retained gastric contents.

RESULTS

Of 815 patients, 70 (8.7%) had retained gastric contents on endoscopy of whom 65 (93%) had type 2 diabetes mellitus. Only 1 (1.4%) of these patients required unplanned intubation, and none had aspiration events. Those with GLP1-RA held per ASA guidance (406, 49.8%) were less likely to have retained contents (4.4% vs 12.7%, P < 0.001), but there were no significant differences to intubation (0% vs 2%, P = 0.53) or aborting procedure rates (28% vs 18%, P = 0.40) due to gastric retention. On multivariable analysis, likelihood of food retention increased 36% (95% confidence interval 1.15-1.60) for every 1% increase in hemoglobin A1C after adjusting for GLP1-RA type and preoperative medication hold.

DISCUSSION

In this multicenter study, very low rates of retained gastric contents were seen during endoscopy in patients on GLP1-RAs and most were in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Our findings suggest an individualized approach rather than universal preoperative holding of medications before endoscopy.

Efficacy and safety of itopride SR for upper gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with diabetic gastroparesis: real-world evidence from Pakistan

Background

Gastroparesis is a serious condition that can be caused by diabetes, surgery or infection, or can be idiopathic. When there is no mechanical obstruction, gastroparesis is characterized by delayed stomach emptying. Itopride, a prokinetic drug, inhibits acetylcholinesterase activity in addition to antagonizing dopamine D2 receptors.

Methods

This prospective, multicentre study is based on real-world data from 988 patients with a diagnosis of diabetic gastroparesis for index (PAGI-SYM2) evaluation at baseline and week 4 of treatment for upper gastrointestinal disorder symptoms.

Results

Upper gastrointestinal symptom severity scores improved significantly after 4 weeks of treatment (p<0.001), with significant improvement across all categories of gastroparesis (very mild (37-58.6%), mild degree (24.6-31.6%), moderate (29.3-7.3%) and severe (8.8-2.6%).

Conclusion

Itopride SR (Nogerd SR) in a 150 mg once-daily dose showed promising results in reducing the severity of upper gastrointestinal disorder symptoms associated with diabetic gastroparesis. Both statistical and clinical effectiveness were observed. Moreover, the treatment demonstrated a favourable tolerability profile, with a low incidence of adverse effects.

Optimal measurement of gastric emptying of solids in gastroparesis or functional dyspepsia: evidence to establish standard test

OBJECTIVE

Symptoms in gastroparesis (Gp) and functional dyspepsia (FD) overlap; using egg protein substitute to measure gastric emptying of solids (GES), ~40% of patients are reclassified from Gp to FD, and vice versa. Our aim was to assess inter-individual and intra-individual coefficients of variation (COV) in GES in symptomatic patients with Gp or FD with documented slow or normal GES, respectively.

DESIGN

Scintigraphic GES (T1/2 and GE% at 2 and 4 hours) using a 320 kcal real egg meal (30% fat) was tested in the following: single measurements in 20 patients with diabetes mellitus (10 each type 1 and type 2); repeat GES to estimate COVintra measured: 3 days apart in 9 Gp, 4 weeks apart in 21 Gp and 18 with FD with normal GE assigned to placebo and in 70 patients at 94.3 weeks (median) apart.

RESULTS

COVinter for GE% at 4 hours and GE T1/2 were respectively 14.2% and 23.5% in FD and 27.5% and 33% in Gp; COVintra for GE% at 4 hours and GE T1/2 up to 4 weeks apart were 23.4% and 37.9% in FD and 20.1% and 33% in Gp. GE% at 2 hours showed less consistent results. However, >85% retained original diagnosis as normal or delayed. From clinical GES to baseline research for Gp group, repeat GES (after treatment) showed the COVintra for GE% at 4 hours was 37.3% at median 94.3 weeks, with 26/70 changed diagnoses.

CONCLUSION

The 320 kcal (30% fat) GES scintigraphic test provides consistent diagnosis in >85% and should be the standard test for suspected gastric emptying disorders.

A New Paradigm Shift in Gastroparesis Management

Gastroparesis, once regarded as a rare disease, is difficult to diagnose and challenging to treat; there were many breakthrough advances in the 2010s, shifting the paradigm of the understanding of this complex entity and its management. Similar to diabetes, its increasing prevalence reflects increased accessibility to diagnostic modalities and suggests that gastroparesis was underacknowledged in the past. Major developments in the three main aspects of the disease include the discovery of smooth muscle cells, interstitial cells of Cajal, PDGFRα+ cells syncytium, rather than interstitial cells of Cajal alone, as the main gastric pacemaker unit; the development of validated point-of-care diagnostic modalities such as a wireless motility capsule, the carbon 13-labeled breath test, and impedance planimetry; and the introduction of novel minimally invasive therapeutic options such as newer pharmacologic agents and gastric peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy. All aspects of these advances will be discussed further in this review.

Novel insights into the pathogenic impact of diabetes on the gastrointestinal tract

Type 2 and type 1 diabetes are common endocrine disorders with a progressively increasing incidence worldwide. These chronic, systemic diseases have multiorgan implications, and the whole gastrointestinal (GI) tract represents a frequent target in terms of symptom appearance and interdependent pathophysiological mechanisms. Metabolic alterations linked with diabetic complications, neuropathy and disrupted hormone homeostasis can lead to upper and/or lower GI symptoms in up to 75% of diabetic patients, with multifactorial involvement of the oesophagus, stomach, upper and lower intestine, and of the gallbladder. On the other hand, altered gastrointestinal motility and/or secretions are able to affect glucose and lipid homeostasis in the short and long term. Finally, diabetes has been linked with increased cancer risk at different levels of the GI tract. The presence of GI symptoms and a comprehensive assessment of GI function should be carefully considered in the management of diabetic patients to avoid further complications and to ameliorate the quality of life. Additionally, the presence of gastrointestinal dysfunction should be adequately managed to improve metabolic homeostasis, the efficacy of antidiabetic treatments and secondary prevention strategies.

Systematic review with meta-analysis: one-year outcomes of gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy for refractory gastroparesis

BACKGROUND

Several studies have examined the efficacy of gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) for gastroparesis.

AIM

To evaluate the mid-term efficacy of G-POEM by meta-analysis of studies with a minimum 1 year of follow-up.

METHODS

We reviewed several databases from inception to 10 June 2021 to identify studies that evaluated the efficacy of G-POEM in refractory gastroparesis, and had at least 1 year of follow-up. Our outcomes of interest were clinical success at 1 year, adverse events, difference in mean pre- and 1 year post-procedure Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI) score, and difference in mean pre- and post-procedure EndoFLIP measurements. We analysed data using a random-effects model and assessed heterogeneity by I2 statistic.

RESULTS

We included 10 studies comprising 482 patients. Pooled rates (95% CI) of clinical success at 1 year and adverse events were 61% (49%, 71%) and 8% (6%, 11%), respectively. Mean GCSI at 1 year post-procedure was significantly lower than pre-procedure; mean difference (MD) (95% CI) -1.4 (-1.9, -0.9). Mean post-procedure distensibility index was significantly higher than pre-procedure in the clinical success group at 40 and 50 mL volume distension; standardised mean difference (95% CI) 0.82 (0.07, 1.64) and 0.91 (0.32, 1.49), respectively. In the clinical failure group, there was no significant difference between mean pre- and post-procedure EndoFLIP measurements.

CONCLUSIONS

G-POEM is associated with modest clinical success at 1 year. Additional studies with longer follow-up are required to evaluate its longer-term efficacy.

Hybrid Closed-loop to Manage Gastroparesis in People With Type 1 Diabetes: a Case Series

BACKGROUND

Gastroparesis is associated with unpredictable gastric emptying and can lead to erratic glucose profiles and negative impacts on quality-of-life. Many people with gastroparesis are unable to meet glycemic targets and there is a need for new approaches for this population. Hybrid closed-loop systems improve glucose control and quality-of-life but evidence for their use in people with diabetic gastroparesis is limited.

METHODS

We present a narrative review of the challenges associated with type 1 diabetes management for people with gastroparesis and present a case series of 7 people with type 1 diabetes and gastroparesis. We compare glycemic control before and during the first 12 months of hybrid closed-loop therapy. Data were analyzed using electronic patient records and glucose management platforms. We also discuss future advancements for closed-loop systems that may benefit this population.

RESULTS

Five of 7 patients had data available for time in range before and during hybrid closed-loop therapy, and all had an improvement in percentage time in target glucose range, with the overall mean time in range increasing from 26.0% ± 15.7% to 58.4% ± 8.6% during HCL use, (P = .004). There were significant reductions in HbA1c (83 ± 9 mmol/mol to 71 ± 14 mmol/mol) and mean glucose from 13.0 ± 1.7 mmol/L (234 ± 31 mg/dL) to 10.0 ± 0.7 mmol/L (180 ± 13 mg/dL) with use of a hybrid closed-loop system. Importantly, this was achieved without an increase in time in hypoglycemia (P = .50).

CONCLUSION

Hybrid closed-loop systems may represent a valuable approach to improve glycemic control for people with type 1 diabetes and gastroparesis. Prospective studies are required to confirm these findings.

United European Gastroenterology (UEG) and European Society for Neurogastroenterology and Motility (ESNM) consensus on gastroparesis

BACKGROUND

Gastroparesis is a condition characterized by epigastric symptoms and delayed gastric emptying (GE) rate in the absence of any mechanical obstruction. The condition is challenging in clinical practice by the lack of guidance concerning diagnosis and management of gastroparesis.

METHODS

A Delphi consensus was undertaken by 40 experts from 19 European countries who conducted a literature summary and voting process on 89 statements. Quality of evidence was evaluated using grading of recommendations assessment, development, and evaluation criteria. Consensus (defined as ≥80% agreement) was reached for 25 statements.

RESULTS

The European consensus defined gastroparesis as the presence of symptoms associated with delayed GE in the absence of mechanical obstruction. Nausea and vomiting were identified as cardinal symptoms, with often coexisting postprandial distress syndrome symptoms of dyspepsia. The true epidemiology of gastroparesis is not known in detail, but diabetes, gastric surgery, certain neurological and connective tissue diseases, and the use of certain drugs recognized as risk factors. While the panel agreed that severely impaired gastric motor function is present in these patients, there was no consensus on underlying pathophysiology. The panel agreed that an upper endoscopy and a GE test are required for diagnosis. Only dietary therapy, dopamine-2 antagonists and 5-HT₄ receptor agonists were considered appropriate therapies, in addition to nutritional support in case of severe weight loss. No consensus was reached on the use of proton pump inhibitors, other classes of antiemetics or prokinetics, neuromodulators, complimentary, psychological, or more invasive therapies. Finally, there was consensus that gastroparesis adversely impacts on quality of life and healthcare costs and that the long-term prognosis of gastroparesis depends on the cause.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

A multinational group of European experts summarized the current state of consensus on definition, symptom characteristics, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of gastroparesis.

Effect of Combined Interval and Continuous Exercise Training on Gastric Emptying, Appetite, and Adaptive Responses in Men With Overweight and Obesity

Background/Objectives: Characterizing compensatory and adaptive responses to exercise assists in understanding changes in energy balance and health outcomes with exercise interventions. This study investigated the effects of a short-term exercise intervention (combining high intensity interval (HII) and continuous exercise) on (1) gastric emptying, appetite and energy intake; and (2) other adaptive responses including cardiorespiratory fitness, in inactive men with overweight/obesity. Methods: Fifteen men (BMI: 29.7 ± 3.3 kg/m-2) completed a 4-wk supervised exercise intervention, consisting of 5 exercise sessions per week alternating between HII (30 s at 100% VO2max followed by 30 s recovery) and continuous (at 50% VO2max) training on a cycle ergometer, progressing from 30 to 45 min session duration. Gastric emptying (13C-octanoic acid breath test), appetite (visual analog scale), energy intake (ad libitum lunch meal), body composition (air displacement plethysmography), non-exercise activity (accelerometery) VO2max, blood pressure, and fasting concentrations of glucose, insulin, and ghrelin were measured before and after (≥48 h) the intervention. Results: Gastric emptying, glucose, insulin and ghrelin were unchanged, but energy intake at the ad libitum lunch test meal significantly increased at post-intervention (+171 ± 116 kcal, p < 0.01). Body weight (-0.9 ± 1.1 kg), waist circumference (-2.3 ± 3.5 cm) and percent body fat (-0.9 ± 1.1%) were modestly reduced (P < 0.05). VO2max increased (+4.4 ± 2.1 ml.kg.min-1) by 13% and systolic (-6.2 ± 8.4 mmHg) and diastolic (-5.8 ± 2.2 mmHg) blood pressure were significantly reduced (P ≤ 0.01 for all). Conclusions: Four weeks of exercise training did not alter gastric emptying, indicating gastric emptying may only adapt to a higher volume/longer duration of exercise or changes in other characteristics associated with regular exercise. The combination of HII and continuous exercise training had beneficial effects on body composition, cardiorespiratory fitness, and blood pressure and warrants further investigation in larger randomized controlled trials.

Functional Dyspepsia and Gastroparesis in Tertiary Care are Interchangeable Syndromes With Common Clinical and Pathologic Features

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to clarify the pathophysiology of functional dyspepsia (FD), a highly prevalent gastrointestinal syndrome, and its relationship with the better-understood syndrome of gastroparesis.

METHODS

Adult patients with chronic upper gastrointestinal symptoms were followed up prospectively for 48 weeks in multi-center registry studies. Patients were classified as having gastroparesis if gastric emptying was delayed; if not, they were labeled as having FD if they met Rome III criteria. Study analysis was conducted using analysis of covariance and regression models.

RESULTS

Of 944 patients enrolled during a 12-year period, 720 (76%) were in the gastroparesis group and 224 (24%) in the FD group. Baseline clinical characteristics and severity of upper gastrointestinal symptoms were highly similar. The 48-week clinical outcome was also similar but at this time 42% of patients with an initial diagnosis of gastroparesis were reclassified as FD based on gastric-emptying results at this time point; conversely, 37% of patients with FD were reclassified as having gastroparesis. Change in either direction was not associated with any difference in symptom severity changes. Full-thickness biopsies of the stomach showed loss of interstitial cells of Cajal and CD206+ macrophages in both groups compared with obese controls.

CONCLUSIONS

A year after initial classification, patients with FD and gastroparesis, as seen in tertiary referral centers at least, are not distinguishable based on clinical and pathologic features or based on assessment of gastric emptying. Gastric-emptying results are labile and do not reliably capture the pathophysiology of clinical symptoms in either condition. FD and gastroparesis are unified by characteristic pathologic features and should be considered as part of the same spectrum of truly "organic" gastric neuromuscular disorders. CLINICALTRIALS.

GOV IDENTIFIER

NCT00398801, NCT01696747.

United European Gastroenterology (UEG) and European Society for Neurogastroenterology and Motility (ESNM) consensus on gastroparesis

BACKGROUND

Gastroparesis is a condition characterized by epigastric symptoms and delayed gastric emptying (GE) rate in the absence of any mechanical obstruction. The condition is challenging in clinical practice by the lack of guidance concerning diagnosis and management of gastroparesis.

METHODS

A Delphi consensus was undertaken by 40 experts from 19 European countries who conducted a literature summary and voting process on 89 statements. Quality of evidence was evaluated using grading of recommendations assessment, development, and evaluation criteria. Consensus (defined as ≥80% agreement) was reached for 25 statements.

RESULTS

The European consensus defined gastroparesis as the presence of symptoms associated with delayed GE in the absence of mechanical obstruction. Nausea and vomiting were identified as cardinal symptoms, with often coexisting postprandial distress syndrome symptoms of dyspepsia. The true epidemiology of gastroparesis is not known in detail, but diabetes, gastric surgery, certain neurological and connective tissue diseases, and the use of certain drugs recognized as risk factors. While the panel agreed that severely impaired gastric motor function is present in these patients, there was no consensus on underlying pathophysiology. The panel agreed that an upper endoscopy and a GE test are required for diagnosis. Only dietary therapy, dopamine-2 antagonists and 5-HT4 receptor agonists were considered appropriate therapies, in addition to nutritional support in case of severe weight loss. No consensus was reached on the use of proton pump inhibitors, other classes of antiemetics or prokinetics, neuromodulators, complimentary, psychological, or more invasive therapies. Finally, there was consensus that gastroparesis adversely impacts on quality of life and healthcare costs and that the long-term prognosis of gastroparesis depends on the cause.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

A multinational group of European experts summarized the current state of consensus on definition, symptom characteristics, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of gastroparesis.

Gastrointestinal symptoms and cardiac vagal tone in type 1 diabetes correlates with gut transit times and motility index

BACKGROUND

Although gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are common in diabetes, they frequently do not correlate with measurable sensorimotor abnormalities. The wireless motility capsule (WMC) measures pressure, temperature, and pH as it traverses the GI tract wherefrom transit times and motility indices are derived. The aim was to investigate whether GI symptoms correlate with changes in (a) segmental transit times, (b) segmental motility index, (c) cardiac vagal tone, or (d) presence/absence of peripheral neuropathy in type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

Gastrointestinal symptoms in 104 participants with type 1 diabetes were measured using Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptoms Index and Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale. All underwent standardized WMC investigation measuring segmental transit time and motility. Cardiac vagal tone and presence of peripheral neuropathy were measured using electrocardiographic and nerve conduction velocity testing.

KEY RESULTS

Colonic transit time was correlated with postprandial fullness (P = .01) and constipation (P = .03), while decreased colonic motility index was correlated with diarrhea (P = .01) and decreased bloating (P < .05). Symptoms were not correlated with gastric or small bowel transit time or motility index. In participants with low cardiac vagal tone, gastric motility index (P < .01) and colonic transit time (P < .05) were increased, but not in those with peripheral neuropathy. Abdominal pain was decreased with both peripheral neuropathy (P = .04) and decreased cardiac vagal tone (P = .02).

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

This study supports the rationale for whole gut investigation, using not only transit times but incorporating contractility indices as well. Furthermore, a decreased parasympathetic modulation and an increased hyposensate state appear to be present in type 1 diabetes.

Efficacy of gastric electrical stimulation in intractable nausea and vomiting at 10 years: A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data

BACKGROUND

Gastric electrical simulation has been shown to relieve nausea and vomiting in medically refractory patients. Efficacy of gastric electrical stimulation has been reported mostly in short-term studies, but none has evaluated its efficacy beyond 10 years after implantation.

METHODS

Patients implanted at our center for medically refractory severe and chronic nausea and/or vomiting were evaluated before and over 10 years after implantation using symptomatic scale and quality of life (GIQLI) score. Improvement was defined as a reduction of more than 50% in vomiting frequency.

KEY RESULTS

A total of 50 patients were implanted from January 1998 to December 2009. Among them, 7 were explanted due to a lack of efficacy and/or side effects, 2 died, and 4 were lost to follow-up. Mean follow-up was 10.5 ± 3.7 years. In intention-to-treat analysis, 27/50 (54%) patients reported an improvement. Beyond 10 years, an improvement in early satiety (3.05 vs 1.76, <0.001), bloating (2.51 vs 1.70, P = .012), nausea (2.46 vs 1.35, P = .001), and vomiting (3.35 vs 1.49 P < .001) scores were observed. Quality of life improved over 10 years (GIQLI score: 69.7 vs. 86.4, P = .005) and body mass index (BMI: 23.4 vs. 26.2 kg/m² ; P = .048).

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

Gastric electrical simulation is effective in the long-term in patients with medically refractory nausea and vomiting, with an efficacy of 54% at 10 years on an intention-to-treat analysis. Other long-term observational studies are warranted to confirm these results.

Rapid gastric emptying in diabetes mellitus: Pathophysiology and clinical importance

Although slow gastric emptying (gastroparesis) is a well-known complication of chronic hyperglycemia in diabetes mellitus (DM), it recently has become clear that rapid gastric emptying also is a frequent and important diabetic complication. In contrast, acute hyperglycemia causes slow gastric emptying, and acute hypoglycemia causes rapid gastric emptying. Rapid gastric emptying is frequent in T2DM; however, it may also occur in T1DM, particularly in the early stages of the disease, but may persist even into late stages. Recent studies suggest that usually, the stomach restricts the emptying of nutrients to 1-4 kcals/min. This restriction is due to the action of the gastric 'braking' hormones such as GLP-1, leptin, and amylin acting via the gastric inhibitory vagal motor circuit (GIVMC). Disruption of this braking system leads to rapid gastric emptying. Acute hyperglycemia also slows gastric emptying by stimulating the GIVMC, while acute hypoglycemia causes rapid gastric emptying by stimulating the gastric excitatory vagal motor circuit (GEVMC). In contrast, chronic hyperglycemia causes rapid gastric emptying by inducing oxidative stress in the stomach wall that disrupts inhibitory neuromuscular transmission and increases the contractility of the smooth muscle, while chronic hyperglycemia may also cause slow gastric emptying via severe inflammatory stress caused by proinflammatory macrophages and reduce contractility of the smooth muscle. There is a bidirectional relationship between blood glucose and gastric emptying. Thus, rapid gastric emptying may lead to a sizeable postprandial spike, and slow gastric emptying may blunt it. Postprandial hyperglycemia is involved in the development, progression, and complications of DM. Correction of fast gastric emptying involves agents that activate GIVMC and the use of gastric 'braking' hormones or their analogs. Recognition and treatment of rapid gastric emptying may contribute to better management of postprandial hyperglycemia and prevention of some diabetic complications.

Diabetic Gastroparesis

This review covers the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnosis, and management of diabetic gastroparesis, and more broadly diabetic gastroenteropathy, which encompasses all the gastrointestinal manifestations of diabetes mellitus. Up to 50% of patients with type 1 and type 2 DM and suboptimal glycemic control have delayed gastric emptying (GE), which can be documented with scintigraphy, 13C breath tests, or a wireless motility capsule; the remainder have normal or rapid GE. Many patients with delayed GE are asymptomatic; others have dyspepsia (i.e., mild to moderate indigestion, with or without a mild delay in GE) or gastroparesis, which is a syndrome characterized by moderate to severe upper gastrointestinal symptoms and delayed GE that suggest, but are not accompanied by, gastric outlet obstruction. Gastroparesis can markedly impair quality of life, and up to 50% of patients have significant anxiety and/or depression. Often the distinction between dyspepsia and gastroparesis is based on clinical judgement rather than established criteria. Hyperglycemia, autonomic neuropathy, and enteric neuromuscular inflammation and injury are implicated in the pathogenesis of delayed GE. Alternatively, there are limited data to suggest that delayed GE may affect glycemic control. The management of diabetic gastroparesis is guided by the severity of symptoms, the magnitude of delayed GE, and the nutritional status. Initial options include dietary modifications, supplemental oral nutrition, and antiemetic and prokinetic medications. Patients with more severe symptoms may require a venting gastrostomy or jejunostomy and/or gastric electrical stimulation. Promising newer therapeutic approaches include ghrelin receptor agonists and selective 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor agonists.

Longitudinal evaluation of gastric emptying in type 2 diabetes

AIMS

To evaluate the natural history of gastric emptying in type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

12 patients with type 2 diabetes (7 female; age 65.6 ± 1.2 years; duration of known diabetes 22.9 ± 1.5 years) were invited to return for repeat measurements of gastric emptying using the same dual-labelled solid and liquid meal, a mean of 14.0 ± 0.5 years after their initial study. Blood glucose levels, glycated haemoglobin, upper gastrointestinal symptoms and autonomic nerve function at baseline and follow up were also compared.

RESULTS

Gastric emptying of solids was more rapid at follow up than at baseline (period effect P < 0.05), while emptying of liquids was comparable at baseline and follow up (period effect P = 0.2). Gastric emptying of the solid component was abnormally slow (based on T100min) in 6 subjects at baseline and 1 subject at follow up. Liquid emptying was abnormally slow in 6 subjects at baseline, and 5 subjects at follow up. Two patients were insulin treated at baseline, and 6 at follow up. HbA1c was higher at follow up (P < 0.05); however, fasting blood glucose (P = 0.6), postprandial blood glucose excursions (P = 0.07), autonomic nerve function (P > 0.999), and total upper gastrointestinal symptom score (P = 0.1) did not differ.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with long-term type 2 diabetes, gastric emptying of solids and liquids does not usually become more delayed over time, and abnormally slow gastric emptying of solids may improve.

Clinical Manifestation and Natural History of Gastroparesis

Although gastroparesis was described more than 60 years ago, the natural history and the long-term outcome are still being clarified. The patients with more severe gastroparesis often seek health care treatment in university medical centers specializing in gastrointestinal motility disorders and hence reports in the literature tend to be based on this population and may not be representative of the entire spectrum. The clinical manifestations of gastroparesis are heterogeneous but a significant proportion of patients end up with substantially poorer quality of life. In this article, the focus is on the clinical presentation and natural history of gastroparesis.

Epidemiology and Pathophysiology of Gastroparesis

Gastroparesis is a complex syndrome with symptoms that include nausea, vomiting, and postprandial abdominal pain, and is frequently accompanied by significant delays in gastric emptying. The pathophysiology of diabetic gastroparesis is fairly well understood; however, idiopathic gastroparesis, which accounts for one-third of all cases, may stem from infections, or autoimmune or neurologic disorders, among other causes. To date, few population-based studies have estimated the true prevalence and incidence of gastroparesis. Nonetheless, its prevalence appears to be rising, as does its incidence among minority populations, documented via hospitalizations, which can impose significant economic burdens on patients.

Gastroparesis

Gastroparesis is a disorder characterized by delayed gastric emptying of solid food in the absence of a mechanical obstruction of the stomach, resulting in the cardinal symptoms of early satiety, postprandial fullness, nausea, vomiting, belching and bloating. Gastroparesis is now recognized as part of a broader spectrum of gastric neuromuscular dysfunction that includes impaired gastric accommodation. The overlap between upper gastrointestinal symptoms makes the distinction between gastroparesis and other disorders, such as functional dyspepsia, challenging. Thus, a confirmed diagnosis of gastroparesis requires measurement of delayed gastric emptying via an appropriate test, such as gastric scintigraphy or breath testing. Gastroparesis can have idiopathic, diabetic, iatrogenic, post-surgical or post-viral aetiologies. The management of gastroparesis involves: correcting fluid, electrolyte and nutritional deficiencies; identifying and treating the cause of delayed gastric emptying (for example, diabetes mellitus); and suppressing or eliminating symptoms with pharmacological agents as first-line therapies. Several novel pharmacologic agents and interventions are currently in the pipeline and show promise to help tailor individualized therapy for patients with gastroparesis.

Diabetic gastroparesis: current challenges and future prospects

Diabetic gastroparesis (DMGP) is a condition of delayed gastric emptying after gastric outlet obstruction has been excluded. Symptoms of nausea, vomiting, early satiety, bloating, and abdominal pain are associated with DMGP. Uncontrolled symptoms can lead to overall poor quality of life and financial burdens on the healthcare system. A combination of antiemetics and prokinetics is used in symptom control; metoclopramide is the main prokinetic available for clinical use and is the only U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved agent in the United States. However, a black box warning in 2009 reporting its association with tardive dyskinesia and recommending caution in chronically using this agent beyond 3 months has decreased its role in clinical practice. There is an unmet need for new prokinetics with good efficacy and safety profiles. Currently, there are several new drugs with different mechanisms of action in the pipeline that are under investigation and show promising preliminary results. Surgically combining gastric electrical stimulation with pyloroplasty is considered "gold" standard. Advances in therapeutic endoscopic intervention with gastric per-oral endoscopic pyloromyotomy have also been shown to improve gastric emptying and gastroparesis (GP) symptoms. In this review, we will comment on the challenges encountered when managing patients with DMGP and provide an update on advances in drug development and endoscopic and surgical interventions.

Glucose sensor-augmented continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion in patients with diabetic gastroparesis: An open-label pilot prospective study

Erratic blood glucose levels can be a cause and consequence of delayed gastric emptying in patients with diabetes. It is unknown if better glycemic control increases risks of hypoglycemia or improves hemoglobin A1c levels and gastrointestinal symptoms in diabetic gastroparesis. This study investigated the safety and potential efficacy of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in poorly controlled diabetes with gastroparesis. Forty-five type 1 or 2 patients with diabetes and gastroparesis and hemoglobin A1c >8% from the NIDDK Gastroparesis Consortium enrolled in a 24 week open-label pilot prospective study of CSII plus CGM. The primary safety outcome was combined numbers of mild, moderate, and severe hypoglycemic events at screening and 24 weeks treatment. Secondary outcomes included glycemic excursions on CGM, hemoglobin A1c, gastroparesis symptoms, quality-of-life, and liquid meal tolerance. Combined mild, moderate, and severe hypoglycemic events occurred similarly during the screening/run-in (1.9/week) versus treatment (2.2/week) phases with a relative risk of 1.18 (95% CI 0.85–1.64, P = 0.33). CGM time in hypoglycemia (<70 mg/dL) decreased from 3.9% to 1.8% (P<0.0001), time in euglycemia (70–180 mg/dL) increased from 44.0% to 52.0% (P = 0.02), time in severe hyperglycemia (>300 mg/dL) decreased from 14.2% to 7.0% (P = 0.005), and hemoglobin A1c decreased from 9.4±1.4% to 8.3±1.3% (P = 0.001) on CSII plus CGM. Symptom scores decreased from 29.3±7.1 to 21.9±10.2 with lower nausea/vomiting, fullness/early satiety, and bloating/distention scores (P≤0.001). Quality-of-life scores improved from 2.4±1.1 to 3.1±1.1 (P<0.0001) and volumes of liquid nutrient meals tolerated increased from 420±258 to 487±312 mL (P = 0.05) at 24 weeks. In conclusion, CSII plus CGM appeared to be safe with minimal risks of hypoglycemic events and associated improvements in glycemic control, gastroparesis symptoms, quality-of-life, and meal tolerance in patients with poorly controlled diabetes and gastroparesis. This study supports the safety, feasibility, and potential benefits of improving glycemic control in diabetic gastroparesis.

The Burdens, Concerns, and Quality of Life of Patients with Gastroparesis

AIMS

The impact of gastroparesis on patients from the patient's viewpoint is needed to better address treatment priorities. The aims of this study were to: (1) Delineate burdens and concerns of patients with gastroparesis; (2) investigate specific symptoms contributing to impaired quality of life (QOL) in gastroparesis.

METHODS

The International Foundation for Functional GI Disorders gastroparesis survey questionnaire was developed to describe patients' viewpoint about their experience with gastroparesis and included Patient Assessment of Upper GI Symptoms (PAGI-SYM) and SF-36 QOL survey.

RESULTS

A total of 1423 adult patients with gastroparesis completed the survey. Average duration of gastroparesis symptoms was 9.3 years with time from onset to diagnosis 5.0 years. Patients felt that they receive good information regarding treatment options from physicians, the Internet, and Facebook. Patients rated their satisfaction with available treatment for their gastroparesis as dissatisfied (33%), somewhat dissatisfied (27%), neutral (14%), somewhat satisfied (15%), and satisfied (4%). Patients felt that gastroparesis symptoms that are most important to improve with treatment are nausea, stomach pain, and vomiting. Overall, there was a decreased quality of life by SF-36. Physical health QOL score was negatively correlated with symptoms including nausea (r = -0.37), upper abdominal pain (r = -0.37), and early satiety (r = -0.37).

CONCLUSIONS

This large series of patients with gastroparesis describes their burdens, concerns, and QOL. Nausea, vomiting, early satiety, and abdominal pain are important symptoms for treatment. Many patients are not satisfied with current treatments, wanting specific treatments for their disorder. Interestingly, a large number of patients find out about treatments, not only from their physician, but also using the Internet including social media.

Glycemic indices, glycemic load and glycemic response for seventeen varieties of dates grown in Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND

Dates are consumed worldwide, and are an important fruit for many individuals in Saudi Arabia. Currently, limited information is available on the glycemic indices of different date varieties.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the glycemic index (GI), glycemic load (GL) and glycemic response for 17 common date varieties in Saudi Arabia.

DESIGN

Prospective clinical trial on healthy subjects.

SETTING

College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The available carbohydrate content of Tamer stage dates was determined using standard laboratory methods. Healthy subjects (ten males and nine females) received 50 g of glucose (on three separate occasions) and 50 g equivalent of available carbohydrates from the seventeen varieties of date (each once). The GI and GL were then calculated.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

GI, GL, and glycemic response.

RESULTS

The mean (SEM) GI of the date samples was 55.2 (7.7) (range, 42.8-74.6). Sellaj and Maktoomi exhibited the highest GI (74.6 [10.1] and 71.0 [11.1]), respectively, whereas Shaqra, Sukkary, and Sag'ai had the lowest GI (42.8 [5.5], 43.4 [4.7] and 44.6 [6]), respectively. The GL of the date samples ranged from 8.5 to 24. Sellaj had a high GL (24), whereas Ajwah and Shaqra had a low GL (8.5 and 9.2). The analyses suggested no significant difference in GI between the date varieties. However, the GL values differed significantly between the 17 date varieties (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

The results provide reliable GI and GL values for 17 common date varieties in Saudi Arabia. The identification of date varieties with lower glycemic responses may help lower the GI of the diet of both healthy and diabetic Saudi individuals.

LIMITATIONS

We used dates at the Tamer stage, which may not be translatable to all types of dates.

Baseline features and differences in 48 week clinical outcomes in patients with gastroparesis and type 1 vs type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND

In studies of diabetic gastroparesis, patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T1DM, T2DM) are often combined for analyses. We compared gastroparesis severity, healthcare utilization, psychological function, and quality of life in T1DM vs T2DM gastroparesis patients.

METHODS

Questionnaire, laboratory, and scintigraphy data from patients with gastroparesis and T1DM and T2DM from seven centers of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Gastroparesis Clinical Research Consortium Registry were compared at enrollment and after 48 weeks. Multiple regression models assessed baseline and follow-up differences between diabetes subtypes.

KEY RESULTS

At baseline, T1DM patients (N = 78) had slower gastric emptying, more hospitalizations, more gastric stimulator implantations, higher hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and more anxiety vs T2DM patients (N = 59). Independent discriminators of patients with T1DM vs T2DM included worse gastroesophageal reflux disease, less bloating, more peripheral neuropathy, and fewer comorbidities (p ≤ 0.05). On follow-up, gastrointestinal (GI) symptom scores decreased only in T2DM (p < 0.05), but not in T1DM patients who reported greater prokinetic, proton pump inhibitor, anxiolytic, and gastric stimulator usage over 48 weeks (p ≤ 0.03). Gastrointestinal symptoms at baseline and 48 weeks with both subtypes were not associated with HbA1c, peripheral neuropathy, psychological factors, or quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Baseline symptoms were similar in T1DM and T2DM patients, even though T1DM patients had worse gastric emptying delays and higher HbA1c suggesting other factors mediate symptom severity. Symptom scores at 48 weeks decreased in T2DM, but not T1DM patients, despite increased medical and surgical treatment utilization by T1DM patients. Defining causes of different outcomes in diabetic gastroparesis warrants further investigation.

Relationship Between Control of Glycemia and Gastric Emptying Disturbances in Diabetes Mellitus

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Hyperglycemia is implicated as a major risk factor for delayed gastric emptying in diabetes mellitus and vice versa. However, the extent to which hyperglycemia can affect gastric emptying and vice versa and the implications for clinical practice are unclear. We systematically reviewed the evidence for this bidirectional relationship and the effects of pharmacotherapy for diabetes on gastric emptying.

METHODS

Full-length articles investigating the relationship between diabetes mellitus and gastroparesis were reviewed primarily to quantify the relationship between blood glucose concentrations and gastrointestinal sensorimotor functions, particularly gastric emptying, and gastrointestinal symptoms. The effects of drugs and hormones that affect glycemia on gastrointestinal sensorimotor functions were also evaluated.

RESULTS

Acute severe hyperglycemia delayed gastric emptying relative to euglycemia in type 1 diabetes; the corresponding effects in type 2 diabetes are unknown. Limited evidence suggests that even mild hyperglycemia (8 mmol/L) can delay gastric emptying in type 1 diabetes. Long-term hyperglycemia is an independent risk factor for delayed gastric emptying in type 1 diabetes. There is little evidence that delayed gastric emptying causes hypoglycemia in diabetes and no evidence that improved control of glycemia improves gastric emptying or vice versa. Glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists but not dipeptidylpeptidase-4 inhibitors given acutely delay gastric emptying, but tachyphylaxis may occur.

CONCLUSIONS

Although acute severe and chronic hyperglycemia can delay gastric emptying, there is limited evidence that delayed gastric emptying is an independent risk factor for impaired glycemic control or hypoglycemia in diabetes. The impact of improved glycemic control on gastric emptying and vice versa in diabetes is unknown.

[Gastroparesis - causes, diagnosis and treatment]

BACKGROUND Gastroparesis is a motility disorder of the stomach. The symptoms are non-specific: nausea and vomiting are most common. Stomach pains, early satiety, postprandial fullness and bloating are also frequent symptoms. Current diagnostic criteria require delayed gastric emptying in the absence of any detectable mechanical obstruction. In this review article we elucidate the causes, assessment and treatment options.MATERIAL AND METHOD Structured article search in Embase and PubMed.RESULTS A number of conditions can lead to gastroparesis. The most frequent somatic cause is diabetes mellitus. Gastroparesis may also be iatrogenically inflicted by means of surgery or drugs. It may be difficult to discriminate between functional dyspepsia and idiopathic gastroparesis. Examination is based on patient history, gastroscopy and measurement of the rate of gastric emptying. Biochemical tests are also relevant for differential diagnosis. The treatment is primarily symptomatic, and consists of dietary measures, fluid therapy, drugs, gastric electrical stimulation, or endoscopic or surgical intervention in the form of insertion of a feeding tube for nutrition and abdominal relief, pyloroplasty or gastrectomy.INTERPRETATION Gastroparesis is a serious motility disorder. The condition may have significant consequences for patients, entailing reduced quality of life, reduced workforce participation and a considerable need for health assistance.

Influence of habitual physical activity on gastric emptying in healthy males and relationships with body composition and energy expenditure

Although a number of studies have examined the role of gastric emptying (GE) in obesity, the influences of habitual physical activity level, body composition and energy expenditure (EE) on GE have received very little consideration. In the present study, we compared GE in active and inactive males, and characterised relationships with body composition (fat mass and fat-free mass) and EE. A total of forty-four males (active n 22, inactive n 22; BMI 21-36 kg/m2; percentage of fat mass 9-42%) were studied, with GE of a standardised (1676 kJ) pancake meal being assessed by the [13C]octanoic acid breath test, body composition by air displacement plethysmography, RMR by indirect calorimetry, and activity EE (AEE) by accelerometry. The results showed that GE was faster in active compared with inactive males (mean half-time (t 1/2): active 157 (sd 18) and inactive 179 (sd 21) min, P< 0.001). When data from both groups were pooled, GE t 1/2 was associated with percentage of fat mass (r 0.39, P< 0.01) and AEE (r - 0.46, P< 0.01). After controlling for habitual physical activity status, the association between AEE and GE remained, but not that for percentage of fat mass and GE. BMI and RMR were not associated with GE. In summary, faster GE is considered to be a marker of a habitually active lifestyle in males, and is associated with a higher AEE level and a lower percentage of fat mass. The possibility that GE contributes to a gross physiological regulation (or dysregulation) of food intake with physical activity level deserves further investigation.

Gastric Emptying Is More Rapid in Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes and Impacts on Postprandial Glycemia

CONTEXT

Gastric emptying is a critical determinant of postprandial glycemic control in health and type 1 diabetes. There are few studies that assess the relationship between gastric emptying and postprandial glycaemia in adolescents with type 1 diabetes.

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of the study were to quantify gastric emptying in adolescents with type 1 diabetes and examine its relationship to postprandial glycaemia and autonomic function.

DESIGN

This was a case-control study. Gastric half-emptying time of a solid meal was measured by a (13)C-octanoate breath test. Cardio-autonomic function was measured by heart rate variability. Chronic and postprandial gastrointestinal symptoms were evaluated by questionnaire and visual analog scales. Blood glucose concentrations were monitored frequently during the study.

SETTING

The study was conducted at a tertiary pediatric hospital in South Australia.

PARTICIPANTS

Thirty adolescents (aged 15 ± 2.5 y) with type 1 diabetes and age- and sex-matched controls (gastric emptying, n = 20; heart rate variability, n = 135) participated in the study.

MAIN OUTCOME

Gastric half-emptying time was the main outcome in the study.

RESULTS

Gastric emptying was more rapid in subjects with type 1 diabetes than controls [median half emptying time 78 (interquartile range 61-99) vs 109 (interquartile range 71-124) min, P = .02]. The postprandial rise in blood glucose at 60 minutes was strongly related to gastric half-emptying time (R = -0.65, P = .0001). Gastric emptying was slower in subjects with fasting hyperglycemia but was not related to heart rate variability. Nausea, bloating, and anxiety were related to fasting glycemia (P = .03).

CONCLUSION

Rapid gastric emptying is a major determinant of postprandial glycemia in adolescents with type 1 diabetes. This observation has significant implications for therapy.

Relationship between glycemic control and gastric emptying in poorly controlled type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Acute hyperglycemia delays gastric emptying in patients with diabetes. However, it is not clear whether improved control of glycemia affects gastric emptying in these patients. We investigated whether overnight and short-term (6 mo) improvements in control of glycemia affect gastric emptying.

METHODS

We studied 30 patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes (level of glycosylated hemoglobin, >9%). We measured gastric emptying using the [(13)C]-Spirulina platensis breath test on the patients' first visit (visit 1), after overnight administration of insulin or saline, 1 week later (visit 2), and 6 months after intensive therapy for diabetes. We also measured fasting and postprandial plasma levels of C-peptide, glucagon-like peptide 1, and amylin, as well as autonomic functions.

RESULTS

At visit 1, gastric emptying was normal in 10 patients, delayed in 14, and accelerated in 6; 6 patients had gastrointestinal symptoms; vagal dysfunction was associated with delayed gastric emptying (P < .05). Higher fasting blood levels of glucose were associated with shorter half-times of gastric emptying (thalf) at visits 1 (r = -0.46; P = .01) and 2 (r = -0.43; P = .02). Although blood levels of glucose were lower after administration of insulin (132 ± 7 mg/dL) than saline (211 ± 15 mg/dL; P = .0002), gastric emptying thalf was not lower after administration of insulin, compared with saline. After 6 months of intensive therapy, levels of glycosylated hemoglobin decreased from 10.6% ± 0.3% to 9% ± 0.4% (P = .0003), but gastric emptying thalf did not change (92 ± 8 min before, 92 ± 7 min after). Gastric emptying did not correlate with plasma levels of glucagon-like peptide 1 and amylin.

CONCLUSIONS

Two-thirds of patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes have mostly asymptomatic yet abnormal gastric emptying. Higher fasting blood levels of glucose are associated with faster gastric emptying. Overnight and sustained (6 mo) improvements in glycemic control do not affect gastric emptying.

Epidemiology and natural history of gastroparesis

Gastroparesis is characterized by delayed gastric emptying and symptoms thereof in the absence of gastric outlet obstruction. Most studies on the epidemiology of gastroparesis have been conducted in selected case series rather than in the population at large. In the only community-based study of gastroparesis in diabetes mellitus (DM), the average cumulative incidence of symptoms and delayed gastric emptying over 10 years was higher in type 1 DM (5%) than in type 2 DM (1%) and controls (1%). In the United States, the incidence of hospitalizations related to gastroparesis increased substantially between 1995 and 2004, and particularly after 2000.

Measurement of gastric emptying in diabetes

There has been a substantial evolution of concepts related to disordered gastric emptying in diabetes. While the traditional focus has hitherto related to the pathophysiology and management of upper gastrointestinal symptoms associated with gastroparesis, it is now apparent that the rate of gastric emptying is central to the regulation of postprandial glycemia. This recognition has stimulated the development of dietary and pharmacologic approaches to optimize glycemic control, at least in part, by slowing gastric emptying. With the increased clinical interest in this area, it has proved necessary to expand the traditional indications for gastric emptying studies, and consider the relative strengths and limitations of available techniques. Scintigraphy remains the 'gold standard' for the measurement of gastric emptying, however, there is a lack of standardization of the technique, and the optimal test meal for the evaluation of gastrointestinal symptoms may be discordant from that which is optimal to assess impaired glycemic control. The stable isotope breath test provides an alternative to scintigraphy and can be performed in an office-based setting. The effect of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and its agonists to reduce postprandial glycemia is dependent on the baseline rate of gastric emptying, as well as the magnitude of slowing. Because the effect of exogenous GLP-1 to slow gastric emptying is subject to tachyphylaxis with sustained receptor exposure, 'short acting' or 'prandial' GLP-1 agonists primarily target postprandial glycemia through slowing of gastric emptying, while 'long acting' or 'non-prandial' agents lower fasting glucose primarily through insulinotropic and glucagonostatic mechanisms. Accordingly, the indications for the therapeutic use of these different agents are likely to vary according to baseline gastric emptying rate and glycemic profiles.

Management of gastroparesis: beyond basics

OPINION STATEMENT

Gastroparesis is defined as the presence of delayed gastric emptying in the absence of mechanical obstruction, with a variety of upper gastrointestinal symptoms. Although measurement of gastric emptying is necessary for the diagnostic labeling, this finding has little impact in terms of explaining the symptom pattern and determining the prognosis and therapeutic approach. Clinical management is based on ruling out of mechanical causes and serum electrolyte imbalances, followed by initial medical treatment with a gastroprokinetic agent in most cases. However, the evidence that these drugs provide substantial symptomatic benefit is weak. Recent attempts to establish efficacy with newer prokinetics, including serotonin-4, motilin, and ghrelin receptor agonists, have seen few successes, but a new group of agents is under evaluation. More recently, also, no benefit was found with treatment with a tricyclic antidepressant in idiopathic gastroparesis. In refractory cases, especially when there is weight loss, invasive therapeutics such as insertion of feeding tubes, intrapyloric injection of botulinum toxin, implantable gastric electrical stimulation, or surgical (partial) gastrectomy are occasionally considered, but there is little evidence of efficacy, and these are not devoid of potentially major complications. Gastroparesis is likely to remain a challenging condition in the clinic in the foreseeable future.

Emerging drugs for the treatment of gastroparesis

INTRODUCTION

Gastroparesis presents with symptoms of gastric retention with findings of delayed gastric emptying on diagnostic testing. Manifestations of gastroparesis are disabling in severe cases and lead to significant health resource utilization. Current therapies often are ineffective, may exhibit tolerance on chronic administration or produce prominent side effects in large patient subsets.

AREAS COVERED

This review assessed literature on drugs with theoretical efficacy in gastroparesis including medications that accelerate gastric emptying, reduce nausea and vomiting, or act as neuromodulators to reduce gastric sensitivity. Numerous agents exhibit diverse actions to modify gastric sensorimotor function in animal models; however, few medications are in controlled testing in gastroparesis. Prokinetic drugs with promise for this condition include investigational serotonin 5-HT4 agonists, motilin agonists, dopamine D2 antagonists, ghrelin agonists and an agent with combined muscarinic antagonist and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory effects. Other antiemetics and complementary and alternative formulations may be effective for some symptoms.

EXPERT OPINION

Development of effective novel therapies of gastroparesis without the neurotoxicity and cardiac arrhythmogenic effects of current agents will mandate a better definition of the gastric and extragastric factors responsible for the pathogenesis of the varied clinical manifestations of this disorder.

Chinese herbal medicine banxiaxiexin decoction treating diabetic gastroparesis: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials

Objective. To assess the current clinical evidence of Banxiaxiexin decoction for diabetic gastroparesis (DGP). Methods. Electronic databases were searched until December 2012. No language limitations were applied. We included RCTs using Banxiaxiexin decoction/modified Banxiaxiexin decoction for DGP. No restriction for the control group except acupuncture. Applying clinical effective rate as the main outcome index. Data extraction, analyses and quality assessment were conducted according to the Cochrane review standards. Results. 16 RCTs involving 1302 patients were finally identified, and the methodological quality was evaluated as generally low. The data showed that the effect of Banxiaxiexin decoction (BXXD) for DGP was superior to the control group (n = 1302, RR 1.23, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.29, Z = 8.04, P < 0.00001). Only one trial recorded adverse events, no obvious adverse event occurred. Conclusions. Banxiaxiexin decoction could regain the gastric emptying rate and improve diabetic gastrointestinal symptoms. However, the methodological quality of included studies is low, and long term efficacy and safety are still uncertain, which indicates that the findings above should be read with caution. Thereby, well-designed, large-scale, and high-quality randomized controlled clinical trials with scientific rigor are warranted for stronger evidence in future research.

Glucagon-like peptides 1 and 2 in health and disease: a review

The gut derived peptides, glucagon-like peptides 1 and 2 (GLP-1 and GLP-2), are secreted following nutrient ingestion. GLP-1 and another gut peptide, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) are collectively referred to as 'incretin' hormones, and play an important role in glucose homeostasis. Incretin secretion shares a complex interdependent relationship with both postprandial glycemia and the rate of gastric emptying. GLP-1 based therapies are now well established in the management of type 2 diabetes, while recent literature has suggested potential applications to treat obesity and protect against cardiovascular and neurological disease. The mechanism of action of GLP-2 is not well understood, but it shows promise as an intestinotropic agent.

Interaction of insulin with prokinetic drugs in STZ-induced diabetic mice

AIM: To study the possible interactions of metoclopramide, domperidone and erythromycin in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice treated with insulin by various parameters.

METHODS: Effects of the individual as well as combined drugs were studied in diabetic mice via estimation of the blood glucose and serum insulin levels, small intestinal transit (SIT), gastric emptying (GE), xylose absorption and glucose tolerance tests. Groups were given insulin 2 IU/kg s.c., metoclopramide 20 mg/kg p.o., domperidone 20 mg/kg p.o. and erythromycin 6 mg/kg p.o. individually and in combination. There were also normal and diabetic control groups. The first set of experiments was carried out to investigate the subchronic effect on blood glucose and serum insulin levels in diabetic mice of one week of daily dose administration of the tested drugs individually as well as the combination of insulin with each prokinetic drug. The other five sets of experiments were carried out to investigate the acute effect of a single dose of each drug individually and in combination on blood glucose and serum insulin levels, SIT, GE, oral xylose absorption and glucose tolerance tests.

RESULTS: The study included the prokinetic drugs metoclopramide (20 mg/kg), domperidone (20 mg/kg) and erythromycin (6 mg/kg), as well as insulin (2 IU/kg), which was individually effective in decreasing SIT, enhancing GE and increasing xylose absorption significantly in diabetic mice. Erythromycin tended to decrease blood glucose level and increase serum insulin level after 1 wk of daily administration in diabetic mice. Erythromycin potentiated the effect of insulin on blood glucose level and serum insulin level whereas other prokinetic agents failed to do so after repeated dose administration in diabetic mice. Metoclopramide or erythromycin in combination with insulin significantly decreased SIT, in diabetic mice, to lower levels than with insulin alone. Administration of prokinetic drugs along with insulin antagonized the action of insulin on xylose absorption. These combinations also increased the rate of glucose absorption from the gut.

CONCLUSION: The present study suggests that prokinetic drugs could potentially improve glycemic control in diabetic gastroparesis by allowing a more predictable absorption of nutrients, matched to the action of exogenous insulin. The use of prokinetics, such as erythromycin, may be interesting in the clinic in decreasing the need for insulin in diabetic patients. The dose of insulin may be safely decreased with erythromycin in chronic treatments.

Factors influencing admission and outcomes in gastroparesis

BACKGROUND

Current data suggest that gastroparesis is associated with an increased mortality, with reported rates ranging from 4% to nearly 40%. Considering this variability, the goal of this study was to determine mortality rates and risk factors for adverse outcomes in gastroparesis.

METHODS

Using the diagnosis code for gastroparesis, admission rates, duration of hospitalizations, discharge status, and inpatient mortality were determined for emergency department encounters and admissions compiled in the Nationwide Emergency Department Sample and Nationwide Inpatient Sample of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Comorbid conditions, procedural evaluations, age cohort, and gender distribution were examined as potential risk factors.

KEY RESULTS

More than 50% of the emergency encounters for gastroparesis resulted in admission with age, cardiovascular, renal, and infectious disorders, but not diabetes mellitus being associated with higher admission rates. Inpatient mortality was 1.2 ± 0.1%, was not negatively affected by diabetes mellitus as comorbidity, and increased with coexisting infections and with more aggressive therapy. Discharge status was similarly affected by comorbidities, treatment complications, and more aggressive therapy.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

These results demonstrate that gastroparesis does not come with a high mortality risk, with most deaths being due to comorbid conditions. Although gastrostomies and/or nutritional support were used in only a minority of admissions, the associated increase in morbidity and mortality highlights the need to carefully select the right candidates for such interventions and to discuss the common occurrence of adverse outcomes with patients.

Prognosis of diabetic gastroparesis--a 25-year evaluation

AIM

To evaluate the prognosis of diabetic gastroparesis.

METHODS

Eighty-six patients with diabetes had measurements of gastric emptying of a mixed meal using a dual isotope test of solid and liquid meal components, mean blood glucose levels, HbA1c , upper gastrointestinal symptoms and autonomic nerve function performed in 1984-1989. These patients were followed up in 2011, after a mean period of ~25 years.

RESULTS

Of the 86 patients, gastric emptying of solid (the percentage remaining in the stomach at 100 min) was delayed in 35 (41%), and of liquid (the time taken for 50% of the liquid to empty) was delayed in 38 (44%). In 2011, 53 patients were known to be alive, 29 had died and four were lost to follow-up. In those who had died, both age at baseline (P < 0.001) and the score for autonomic nerve dysfunction (P < 0.001) were greater than those who were alive, while there was no difference in emptying of either the solid or liquid between the two groups. When patients with delayed gastric emptying were divided according to the median value ('delayed' and 'markedly delayed'), mortality tended to be greater in the 'markedly delayed' group for both solids (P = 0.12) and liquids (P = 0.09). Of the 82 patients who could be followed up, 23 of the 35 (66%) with delayed gastric emptying of solid and 25 of 38 (66%) with delayed gastric emptying of liquid were alive. After adjustment for age and autonomic dysfunction, there was no association between gastric emptying of either solid or liquid and death.

CONCLUSIONS

Over a period of ~25 years, diabetic gastroparesis is apparently not usually associated with a poor prognosis, or increased mortality.

ABBREVIATIONS

T100 min, the percentage remaining in the stomach at 100 mins; T50%, the time taken for 50% of the liquid to empty.

Diabetic gastroparesis: recent insights into pathophysiology and implications for management

Delayed gastric emptying affects a substantial proportion of patients with long-standing diabetes, and when associated with symptoms and/or disordered glycemic control, affects quality of life adversely. Important clinicopathological insights have recently been gained by the systematic analysis of gastric biopsies from patients with severe diabetic gastroparesis, which may stimulate the development of new therapies in the coming decade. Experience with prokinetic therapies and treatments, such as pyloric botulinum toxin injection and gastric electrical stimulation, has established that relief of symptoms does not correlate closely with acceleration of delayed gastric emptying, and that well-designed controlled trials are essential to determine the efficacy of emerging therapies.

Severity of dyspeptic symptoms correlates with delayed and early variables of gastric emptying

BACKGROUND

A simplified report of gastric retention values at select times is now recommended for scintigraphic gastric emptying test (GET).

AIMS

The purpose of this study was to assess correlation between severity of gastroparetic symptoms and all variables of GET, compared to select variables in clinical use.

METHODS

This was a prospective study of patients referred for scintigraphic GET. The Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index questionnaire was obtained prior to the scintigraphy. Variables determined were lag time, half emptying time (T1/2), retention at 30 min, 1, 2 and 4 h. Statistical analysis was by Spearman rank correlation and Wilcoxon rank test with a significance set at p ≤ 0.05.

RESULTS

Seven hundred seventeen patients had GET from 03/09 to 03/11. Results are from 325 patients who did not take medications known to affect GET were analyzed (64.9 % females, mean age 47 ± 18.9 years, 21.8 % diabetics, 78.2 % non-diabetic, of which 7.6 % were post-surgical, primarily post-fundoplication). Combined gastric retention at 2 and 4 h detected delayed GET in 83.5 % non-diabetics and 76.6 % of diabetics. Rapid GET was present in 11 % of patients at 30 min and 4 % at 1 h. Significant positive correlation was observed between nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and variables of GET, but not with the half-time of emptying (T1/2). Bloating negatively correlated with retention at 2 h. There was no association between duration of symptoms and GET variables.

CONCLUSIONS

Gastroparetic symptoms correlate with different retention times of GET, but not with T1/2. However, symptoms poorly distinguish between categories of gastroparesis or status of gastric emptying. Delayed GE is best detected by 2 and 4 h retention times, while 30 min and 1 h retention times detect rapid GE.

Randomized controlled phase Ib study of ghrelin agonist, RM-131, in type 2 diabetic women with delayed gastric emptying: pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics, and safety of single-dose RM-131 in type 2 diabetic patients with gastrointestinal cardinal symptoms (GCSI) and previously documented delayed gastric emptying (DGE).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In a randomized crossover study, 10 female patients received RM-131 (100 μg s.c.) or placebo and underwent scintigraphic gastric emptying (GE) and colonic filling at 6 h (CF6) of a solid-liquid meal administered 30 min postdosing. Adverse events, plasma glucose, and hormonal levels were assessed. GCSI daily diary (GCSI-DD) was completed during treatments. PK was assessed in this cohort and healthy volunteers (HVs).

RESULTS

At screening, HbA(1c) was 7.2 ± 0.4% (SEM) and total GCSI-DD score was 1.32 ± 0.21. RM-131 accelerated GE t(1/2) of solids (P = 0.011); mean difference (Δ) in solid GE t(1/2) was 68.3 min (95% CI 20-117) or 66.1%. There were numerical differences in GE lag time, CF6 solids, and GE t(1/2) liquids (all P < 0.14). With a significant (P < 0.014) order effect, further analysis of the first treatment period (n = 5 per group) confirmed significant RM-131 effects on GE t(1/2) (solids, P = 0.016; liquids, P = 0.024; CF6, P = 0.013). PK was similar in DGE patients and HVs. There were increases in 120-min blood glucose (P = 0.07) as well as 30-90-min area under the curve (AUC) levels of growth hormone, cortisol, and prolactin (all P < 0.02) with single-dose RM-131. Only light-headedness was reported more on RM-131.

CONCLUSIONS

RM-131 greatly accelerates the GE of solids in patients with type 2 diabetes and documented DGE. PK is similar in diabetic patients and HVs.

A 25-year longitudinal evaluation of gastric emptying in diabetes

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the natural history of gastric emptying in diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Thirteen patients with diabetes (12, type 1; 1, type 2) had measurements of gastric emptying, blood glucose levels, glycated hemoglobin, upper gastrointestinal symptoms, and autonomic nerve function at baseline and after 24.7 ± 1.5 years.

RESULTS

There was no change in gastric emptying of either solids (% retention at 100 min) (baseline 58.5 ± 5% vs. follow-up 51.9 ± 8%; P = 0.35) or liquids (50% emptying time) (baseline 29.8 ± 3 min vs. follow-up 34.3 ± 6 min; P = 0.37). Gastric emptying of solid at follow-up was related to emptying at baseline (r = 0.56, P < 0.05). At follow-up, blood glucose concentrations were lower (P = 0.006), autonomic function deteriorated (P = 0.03), and gastrointestinal symptoms remained unchanged (P = 0.17).

CONCLUSIONS

In unselected patients with diabetes, gastric emptying appears remarkably stable over 25 years.

Performance characteristics of scintigraphic measurement of gastric emptying of solids in healthy participants

BACKGROUND

Gastric emptying (GE) is measured in pharmacodynamic and diagnostic studies. Our aim was to assess inter- and intra-subject coefficients of variation (COV) of scintigraphic GE measurements in healthy subjects, and associations of GE with gender and body mass index (BMI).

METHODS

Data from participants with scintigraphic measurements of gastric emptying of solids were analyzed. Primary endpoints were gastric emptying T(1/2) (GE T(1/2) ) and GE at 1, 2, 3, and 4 h.

KEY RESULTS

The patient cohort consisted of 105 males and 214 females; at least two studies were performed in 47 subjects [16 males (M), 32 females (F)]. Inter-subject COV (COV(inter) ) for GE T(1/2) were similar in M and F: overall 24.5% (M 26.0%, F 22.5%); COV are predictably lowest for GE at 4 h (COV(inter) 9.6%). COV(intra) for T(1/2) and GE at 4 h were overall 23.8% and 12.6%, and were similar to COV(inter) values. Gender (but not age or BMI) was significantly associated with GE T1/2 [P < 0.001, F 127.6 ± 28.7 (SD) min; M 109.9 ± 28.6 min] and with GE at 1 h and 2 h. Repeat GE T(1/2) values in 47 participants were significantly correlated (r = 0.459, P < 0.001) with median difference of -6 min (mean -1.6, range -56 to 72 min). Bland-Altman plots showed Δ GE T(1/2) similarly distributed across mean GE T(1/2) 100-155 min, and across studies conducted 90-600 days apart.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Inter-subject variations in scintigraphic GE results are only slightly higher than the intra-subject measurements, which are also reproducible over time in healthy volunteers. Gender, but not BMI, is significantly associated with GE results.

Prevalence of gastroparesis-related symptoms in an unselected cohort of patients with Type 1 diabetes

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of diabetic gastroparesis is not well defined because of discrepancy between objective measurements, i.e. gastric emptying time, and symptoms experienced by patients. Furthermore most studies have been performed on small selected cohorts.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of clinical symptoms of diabetic gastroparesis in a large unselected cohort of out-patients with Type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

1028 patients with Type 1 diabetes attending a specialized diabetes clinic were mailed a validated questionnaire; "patient assessment of upper gastrointestinal disorders-symptom severity index", in which a subset of questions measures symptoms of gastroparesis (GCSI; Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index). Response rate was 74.4% (n=765). All patients were classified according to presence or absence of late diabetic complications and clinical and paraclinical data were obtained.

RESULTS

A GCSI Total Score ≥1.90 signified definite symptoms of gastroparesis (n=102) and patient charts were investigated for concomitant illness and/or medication influencing gastric emptying. In 30 patients an alternative etiology was revealed, leaving 72 (9.8%) patients with symptoms related to diabetic gastroparesis. Only 8 patients were previously diagnosed. HbA(1c) levels were significantly higher in patients with diabetic gastroparesis (8.4±1.3 vs. 8.2±1.2 respectively, p=0.02). Furthermore, patients with diabetic gastroparesis had more retinopathy (p=0.006) and peripheral polyneuropathy (16.7% vs. 6.7%, p<0.001) and there was a trend for diabetic nephropathy being more common (p=0.08).

CONCLUSIONS

Symptoms of diabetic gastroparesis affect approximately 10% of patients with Type 1 diabetes in a specialized diabetes clinic and are associated with poor glycemic control and other late diabetic complications.

Risk of gastroparesis in subjects with type 1 and 2 diabetes in the general population

OBJECTIVES

In patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and upper gastrointestinal symptoms, a diagnosis of diabetic gastroparesis is often considered, but population-based data on the epidemiology of diabetic gastroparesis are lacking. We aimed to estimate the frequency of and risk factors for gastroparesis among community subjects with DM.

METHODS

In this population-based, historical cohort study, the medical records linkage system of the Rochester Epidemiology Project was used to identify 227 Olmsted County, MN residents with type 1 DM in 1995, a random sample of 360 residents with type 2 DM, and an age- and sex-stratified random sample of 639 nondiabetic residents. Using defined diagnostic criteria, we estimated the subsequent risk of developing gastroparesis in each group through 2006. The risk in DM, compared with frequency-matched community controls, was assessed by Cox proportional hazards modeling.

RESULTS

The cumulative proportions developing gastroparesis over a 10-year time period were 5.2% in type 1 DM, 1.0% in type 2 DM, and 0.2% in controls. The age- and gender-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for gastroparesis (relative to controls) was 33 (95% confidence interval (CI): 4.0, 274) in type 1 DM and 7.5 (95% CI: 0.8, 68) in type 2 DM. The risk of gastroparesis in type 1 DM was significantly greater than in type 2 DM (HR: 4.4 (1.1, 17)). Heartburn (HR: 6.6 (1.7, 25)) at baseline was associated with diabetic gastroparesis in type 1 DM.

CONCLUSIONS

Gastroparesis is relatively uncommon in patients with DM, although an increased risk for gastroparesis was observed in type 1 DM.