SecreFlo is a synthetic version of the intestinal hormone secretin. This product has been approved by the FDA for use in stimulating pancreatic secretions, including bicarbonate, to aid in the diagnosis of pancreatic exocrine dysfunction. Additionally, SecreFlo is approved for use in stimulating gastrin secretion to aid in the diagnosis of gastrinoma, a tumor usually found in the pancreas.

Intravenous administration of SecreFlo stimulates the pancreas to secrete pancreatic juice, which can aid in the diagnosis of exocrine pancreatic dysfunction. Three crossover studies evaluated 21 subjects with a history of chronic pancreatitis. In these trials, SecreFlo was compared to biologically derived porcine secretin (bPS). Results demonstrated that all subjects - treated with either drug - had peak bicarbonate concentrations of less than 80 mEq/L, which is consistent with impaired pancreatic function.

Intravenously administered SecreFlo has been shown to stimulate gastrin secretion in patients with gastrinoma; in contrast, secretion is not considerably increased in healthy individuals or those with peptic ulcer disease. Two SecreFlo crossover studies included eight subjects with tissue-confirmed gastrinoma. Subjects received treatment with SecreFlo, and serum gastrin concentrations were compared to those obtained with bPS. Results showed that for both drugs, serum gastrin concentrations exceeded 100 pg/mL from basal levels.

Adverse events noted in clinical trials of SecreFlo include (but are not limited to) the following:

• Abdominal discomfort
• Nausea
• Mild bradycardia (reduced heart rate)
• Decreased blood pressure
• Diaphoresis (profuse perspiration)

SecreFlo (secretin) is a pure sterile, non-pyrogenic, lypholized white cake powder acetate salt of secretin, a peptide hormone. The primary action of SecreFlo is to increase the volume and bicarbonate content of secreted pancreatic juices. (from SecreFlo FDA Label)

For additional information on SecreFlo, please visit the Repligen company web site.