Bentiromide is a peptide used as a screening test for exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and to monitor the adequacy of supplemental pancreatic therapy. It is given by mouth as a noninvasive test. The amount of 4-aminobenzoic acid and its metabolites excreted in the urine is taken as a measure of the chymotrypsin-secreting activity of the pancreas. Headache and gastrointestinal disturbances have been reported in patients taking bentiromide. Bentiromide is not available in the U.S. or Canada (It was withdrawn in the US in October 1996).
Indication
Used as a screening test for exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and to monitor the adequacy of supplemental pancreatic therapy.
Pharmacology
Bentiromide is a peptide used as a screening test for exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and to monitor the adequacy of supplemental pancreatic therapy. It is given by mouth as a noninvasive test. The amount of p-aminobenzoic acid and its metabolites excreted in the urine is taken as a measure of the chymotrypsin-secreting activity of the pancreas. Headache and gastrointestinal disturbances have been reported in patients taking bentiromide. Bentiromide is not available in the U.S. or Canada.
Toxicity
Symptoms of overdose include shortness of breath and troubled breathing.
Affected Organisms
Humans and other mammals
Biotransformation
Primarily hepatic. Enzymatic activity capable of hydrolyzing bentiromide has also been found in normal small intestine.
References
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Toskes PP: The bentiromide test for pancreatic exocrine insufficiency. Pharmacotherapy. 1984 Mar-Apr;4(2):74-80.
[Pubmed]
