Omeprazole administration does not impair gastrointestinal mucosal perfusion, oxygenation, and hexosamine generation

Omeprazole is a potent antisecretory drug that acts by inhibiting the gastric proton pump. In the present study, we have observed the effects of this drug on gastrointestinal mucosal perfusion, oxygenation, and hexosamine generation in humans. Sixteen healthy volunteers were included. Gastrointestinal mucosal perfusion and oxygenation (duodenum, antrum, and corpus) were assessed by laser-Doppler flowrnetry and reflectance spectrophotometry. Biopsy specimens were also taken from each location to determine hexosamine content as a quantitative indicator of mucus generation. In addition, serum gastrin level was measured. After baseline data were obtained, subjects were randomly assigned to receive 20 mg of oral omeprazole once daily for 7 days (n=8) or placebo (n=8). All measurements were performed again after double-blinded drug administration. No effect was found after placebo administration. In contrast, omperazole administration significantly increased serum gastrin level (p