Monosodium Glutamate on Gastric Emptying

Children with a radionuclide gastric emptying test with abnormal results will undergo a second test with the addition of a weight adjusted dose of monosodium glutamate. The purpose of the study is to determine if a single dose of monosodium glutamate can shorten the gastric emptying time.

There is evidence that monosodium glutamate has effects on synapsis at the gastric and duodenum level that results in stimulation of contractility resulting on increase rate of gastric emptying. The purpose of the study is to demonstrate that the administration of a single dose of monosodium glutamate can shorten the gastric emptying time. Patients with a prior study indicating a delay of gastric empting time, will undergo a second test with the addition of a weight adjusted dose of monosodium glutamate. Each patient will serve as her/his own control. Results will be analysed by pair-T test.

Results of one time gastric emptying study with a single dose of monosodium glutamate; 1 g for weight greater than 45 kg, 700mg between 35 and 44,900 kg, 600mg between 25 and 34,900, 500mg between 15 and 25 kg and 250mg in less than 15 kg

A single dose of weight adjusted monosodium glutamate will be added at the time of a repeat radionuclide gastric emptying study

Inclusion Criteria: children with delayed gastric emptying not receiving prokinetic medication in the last 72 hours Exclusion Criteria: Prior gastrointestinal surgery, patients with known history of reaction to monosodium glutamate. History of neoplasia, autoimmune or inflammatory bowel disease.

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