The influence of the calcium-channel blocker gallopamil on cold-restra
int stress (CRS)-induced gastric effects was investigated in conscious
rats with gastric cannula. CRS, while leading to multiple gastric les
ions, reduced gastric acid output and mast cell count, but increased t
he gastric emptying rate of acid solutions, Intraperitoneally injected
gallopamil (1 mg/kg), given Ih before CRS administration, prevented g
astric lesion formation and partially reversed mast cell count and the
emptying of acid solutions, but had no further effect on acid output,
However, gallopamil in unrestrained rats did not significantly affect
acid emptying or mast cell count, Regarding calcium involvement in th
e pathophysiology of stress-induced gastric lesions, the possible anti
ulcer actions of gallopamil involved in the prevention of CRS-induced
lesion formation may be attributed to its putative stabilizing effect
on mast cells and gastric emptying.