What is Human secretin used for?            

Human secretin is  a man-made hormone that is like the natural secretin made in your small intestine. Human secretin is used to

ˇ        help your pancreas release secretions, including bicarbonate, to aid in the diagnosis of a pancreases problem called pancreatic exocrine dysfunction

ˇ        help your stomach release a hormone called gastrin to aid in the diagnosis of a tumor in your (gastrinoma) in your pancreas  or small intestine

ˇ        help your pancreas release secretions to help show certain areas of your intestine during a special x-ray test called an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). 

Warnings with Human Secretin:

Human secretin may cause an allergic reaction.  You should get a test dose of Human secretin to check for an allergic reaction before the full dose is given.  A test dose is especially important if you have allergies or asthma.

General Precautions with Human secretin:

Human secretin may not work as well if you:

ˇ        have had a an operation called a vagotomy to lower the amount of acid in your stomach

ˇ        are taking certain medicines called anticholinergics

ˇ         have inflammatory bowel disease

People who have alcoholic or other liver disease may have a stronger reaction than others may to Human secretin.

Who should not use Human secretin?      

Do not use Human secretin if you have acute pancreatitis.

What should I tell my health care provider?

Tell your health care provider if you:

ˇ        are trying to become pregnant, are already pregnant, or are breast-feeding

ˇ        have any allergies or have asthma

Tell your health care provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.  Some medicines may affect how Human secretin works.

What are some possible side effects of Human secretin? (This list is NOT a complete list of side effects reported with Human secretin.  Your health care provider can discuss with you a more complete list of side effects.) 

Some common side effects with Human secretin include:

ˇ        nausea

ˇ        flushing (skin turns red and warm)

ˇ        stomach area (abdominal) pain

ˇ        vomiting

For more detailed information about Human Secretin, ask your health care provider or pharmacist.

Link to Human Secretin's label

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Dated posted: 7/13/04

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