The Effect of Naloxone and Methylnaltrexone on Esophageal Sensitivity in Health

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of naloxone (IV or IM administration) and methylnaltrexone (subcutaneous administration) on esophageal sensitivity, in a group of healthy volunteers in order to evaluate the role of endogenous opiods in symptom perception in gastro-esophageal reflux disease. Esophageal sensitivity was assessed by using a multimodal esophageal stimulation protocol where sensitivity to thermal, mechanical, electrical and chemical stimulation was tested.