Comparative effects of synthetic and natural secretin on pancreatic secretion and on secretin, insulin, and glucagon levels in man.

The effect of synthetic secretin (Roche) on exocrine pancreatic secretion and on secretin, insulin, and glucagon levels was determined and compared with that of pure natural porcine secretin (GIH, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm) in 10 healthy volunteers. The two secretin preparations were found to be equipotent. Equipotency applies to pancreatic secretion and to secretin and insulin plasma levels, whereas the plasma levels of glucagon were not affected by either drug. It is concluded that this synthetic secretin preparation is suitable for clinical and research purposes.