title: Pharmacologic therapy in treating achalasia.
abstract: This article focuses on the different pharmacologic treatments for achalasia. Most smooth muscle relaxants such as nitrates and calcium antagonists are temporizing at best. Botulinum toxin, acting at the neuronal level, is effective in two thirds of the patients and has a duration of action of several months. It may be particularly suitable for the elderly or high-risk patient. The mechanism of action and efficacy of the different drugs are discussed in detail.
authors.affiliation: Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas 77555-0764, USA.
authors.forename: W A
authors.initials: WA
authors.lastname: Hoogerwerf
authors.forename: P J
authors.initials: PJ
authors.lastname: Pasricha
mesh_terms: D019274:Botulinum Toxins, Type A / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002121:Calcium Channel Blockers; D004931:Esophageal Achalasia / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D009130:Muscle, Smooth / Q000187:drug effects / Q000503:physiopathology; D009465:Neuromuscular Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005996:Nitroglycerin; D010276:Parasympatholytics / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014665:Vasodilator Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use
chemical_list: D002121:Calcium Channel Blockers; D009465:Neuromuscular Agents; D010276:Parasympatholytics; D014665:Vasodilator Agents; D019274:Botulinum Toxins, Type A; D005996:Nitroglycerin