Pentagastrin
Pentagastrin is a synthetic peptide that stimulates gastric acid secretion by acting on cholecystokinin-2 receptors in the stomach. It is primarily used as a diagnostic agent to assess gastric acid production capacity, particularly in the evaluation of achlorhydria and related conditions.
Pentagastrin is a diagnostic agent used to stimulate and measure gastric acid secretion.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- V04CG04
- RxNorm
- 7993
- Generic
- Pentagastrin
- Class
- atc-v04
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Used to diagnose achlorhydria (absent or low stomach acid), evaluate gastric acid secretion capacity, and assist in the diagnosis of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome and other conditions affecting acid production.
Pentagastrin is a synthetic fragment of gastrin that binds to CCK-2 receptors on parietal cells in the gastric mucosa, stimulating the secretion of gastric acid and pepsin.
Administered via subcutaneous injection during gastric acid analysis. May cause side effects including nausea, abdominal discomfort, and flushing. Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity. Should only be used in clinical settings equipped for gastric function testing.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy