5-hydroxytryptamine 3-receptor antagonist modulates gallbladder emptying and motilin release induced by erythromycin

In the present study we evaluated the effect of ondansetron (formerly indicated as GR38032F), a potent and selective type-3 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor antagonist, on erythromycin-induced gallbladder emptying and motilin release, as well as gallbladder emptying induced by a regular meal in healthy volunteers. Gallbladder emptying was evaluated by sonography. Ondansetron, at the dose of 0.05 mg/kg, significantly reduced (P < 0.001 by ANOVA) the gallbladder emptying induced by 2 mg/kg/hr erythromycin, but did not increase basal gallbladder volume or inhibit gallbladder emptying induced by a regular meal. Ondansetron also inhibited the motilin release induced by erythromycin (P < 0.001, by ANOVA). These results suggest that serotoninergic mechanisms modulate the effects of erythromycin on the gastrointestinal tract. The exact site of action of ondansetron remains to be identified.