THE EFFECT OF CHOLECYSTOKININ TETRAPEPTIDE ON RESPIRATORY RESISTANCE IN HEALTHY-VOLUNTEERS

The effects of cholecystokinin tetrapeptide (CCK-4) on respiratory res istance were studied in 14 healthy volunteers by the registration of s low vital capacity and flow volume loop during forced respiration test . The administration of CCK-4 (50 mu g) was performed in a double-blin d and placebo-controlled design, Injections of CCK-4 induced prominent and time-limited paniclike symptoms in all healthy volunteers. Four v olunteers (29%) experienced a panic attack, Subjective dyspnea was exp erienced by the majority of subjects at the peak of CCK-4 effect and s eemed related to a diminution in vital capacity parameters; however, t he forced respiration test did not reveal bronchoconstriction after CC K-4 challenge, Administration of CCK-4 also induced a short-lasting in crease in heart rate and skin blood flow. This study suggests that dys pnea induced by CCK-4 is not related to changes in respiratory resista nce. (C) 1997 Society of Biological Psychiatry.