General Description
Sincalide is a synthetic octapeptide identical to the C-terminal segment of the endogenous hormone cholecystokinin (CCK). It is administered intravenously as a diagnostic agent to stimulate gallbladder contraction and pancreatic enzyme secretion. The compound has a rapid onset and short duration of action, making it suitable for use during gastrointestinal imaging procedures.
Mechanism of Action
Upon intravenous injection, sincalide binds selectively to CCK-1 receptors located on gallbladder smooth muscle and pancreatic acinar cells. This interaction triggers smooth muscle contraction in the gallbladder wall, leading to bile ejection into the duodenum. Simultaneously, it stimulates pancreatic acinar cells to release digestive enzymes, facilitating functional assessment of pancreatic exocrine reserve.
Application
Sincalide is indicated as a diagnostic adjunct for evaluating gallbladder emptying using hepatobiliary scintigraphy (HIDA scan) to assess for chronic acalculous cholecystitis or biliary dyskinesia. It is also used to stimulate pancreatic secretion during pancreatic function testing. The drug may cause transient abdominal pain or nausea during administration, which typically resolves quickly after the infusion ends.