Effect of an H2‐Receptor Blocking Agent on Diarrhoeas after Extensive Small Bowel Resection in Crohn's Disease

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Abstract
The effect of an H2-receptor blocking agent, cimetidine [CM], on fecal losses of fluid, electrolytes and fat was examined in 10 patients with Crohn''s disease, who had diarrheas after extensive small bowel resection. A randomized, double-blind and cross-over design was applied, and patients were hospitalized and on a defined diet during the study. CM, 4 .times. 400 mg, significantly reduced diarrheal volumes by an average of 22% (P < 0.05) and fecal Na by 27% (P < 0.05). Patients with severe diarrheas responded better to treatment. No side-effects were recorded. CM may be useful in symptomatic treatment of patients with severe diarrheas after extensive ileal resection. Due to deficient drug absorption, higher doses may be needed for optimal effect.