Metoclopramide does not attenuate cricoid pressure-induced relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter in awake volunteers.

Background: The authors examined the influence of metoclopramide on cricoid pressure-induced relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) in awake human volunteers.

Methods: With local institutional review board approval, measurements of LES and intragastric pressures were made in 10 consenting volunteers before cricoid pressure application, during 15 s of cricoid pressure application, and after release of cricoid pressure. The measurements were repeated after 0.