A new study indicates that diabetics with gastroparesis, an autonomic nervous system disorder that results in delayed stomach emptying, may find relief with botulinum toxin treatment.

Eight type 1 diabetic subjects were enrolled in the study in the United States. The lower end of the stomach (pylorus) was injected with 200 units of botulinum toxin, which inhibits the release of acetylcholine and produces transient paralysis in smooth muscle.

After three months, no complications were noted in the patients. Symptoms declined significantly and physical function improved. Some patients increased insulin use and gained weight, and four patients improved gastric-emptying scan time.

The researchers concluded that the results of this small study warrant further investigation with a large, randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Gastroparesis affects up to 50 percent of type 1s. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, early satiety and difficult-to-control blood glucose levels related to unpredictable digestion and nutrient absorption.

—Diabetes Care, October 2004