Ceruletide

Ceruletide is a decapeptide, which is a peptide consisting of ten amino acids. It is a synthetic version of the naturally occurring hormone Cholecystokinin (CCK) that stimulates the gallbladder to discharge bile into the digestive tract. Ceruletide is primarily used in medical procedures to test the function of the gallbladder and pancreas.

History[edit | edit source]

Ceruletide was first synthesized in the 1960s as a more stable, synthetic form of CCK. It was developed to overcome the rapid degradation of natural CCK in the body, which made it unsuitable for therapeutic use.

Medical Uses[edit | edit source]

Ceruletide is used in a variety of diagnostic procedures. It is most commonly used in the HIDA scan, a type of medical imaging used to diagnose problems in the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts. Ceruletide is injected into the patient's body, causing the gallbladder to contract and release bile. This allows doctors to observe the flow of bile and identify any blockages or abnormalities.

In addition to its use in HIDA scans, Ceruletide is also used in tests of pancreatic function. It stimulates the pancreas to release its digestive enzymes, which can then be measured to assess the health of the pancreas.

Pharmacology[edit | edit source]

Ceruletide works by binding to the CCK receptors in the gallbladder and pancreas. This triggers a series of reactions that result in the contraction of the gallbladder and the release of digestive enzymes from the pancreas. Because it is a synthetic peptide, Ceruletide is more resistant to degradation in the body than natural CCK, allowing it to have a longer-lasting effect.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Like all medications, Ceruletide can cause side effects. The most common side effects are nausea and abdominal pain, which are caused by the contraction of the gallbladder. Less common side effects include dizziness, flushing, and changes in blood pressure.