Frontiers in Pharmacology (Nov 2024)
Comparison of enteral prucalopride versus intravenous metoclopramide for feeding intolerance in patients with critical illness: a randomized double-blinded study
Abstract
BackgroundFeeding intolerance is commonly experienced during enteral feeding, necessitating cessation. Metoclopramide may be given to assist gastric emptying, but patients experience adverse effects and gradual loss of efficacy. Prucalopride, a safer prokinetic, may play a role in gastric emptying. Therefore, the current study aimed to assess its effectiveness and safety in feeding intolerance developed in critically ill patients.Materials and MethodsIn this prospective randomized double-blinded study, patients with feeding intolerance were randomized to receive 2 mg prucalopride enterally once daily or 10 mg metoclopramide intravenously every 6–8 h for 7 days. Patients were monitored for treatment failure, successful feeding, gastric residual volume (GRV), and the development of medication-related adverse effects.ResultsA total of 70 patients (35 in the metoclopramide group and 35 in the prucalopride group) completed the study. The average daily GRV in the prucalopride group was significantly lower compared to the metoclopramide group (p=<0.001) on day 7. Additionally, the percentage change in GRV from day 1 to day 7 showed a greater significant change in the prucalopride arm versus the metoclopramide arm (p=<0.001). The treatment groups were comparable in terms of ICU length of stay (p = 0.094). Moreover, there was a significantly higher successful caloric intake in the prucalopride group compared to the metoclopramide group on day 7 (p = 0.039).ConclusionPrucalopride administration in enterally fed patients with feeding intolerance may reduce GRV and improve feeding success rates compared to metoclopramide treatment. The use of prucalopride was found to be tolerable and safe in critically ill patients.Clinical Trial Registrationclinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT05496179
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