DiagnosticFDA Approved

Pentagastrin

Name: Pentagastrin — Mechanism, Dosing & Research
Creator: Peptide Association Editorial Team

Subcutaneous injection, Intramuscular injection

Written by Peptide Association Editorial TeamMedically reviewed by Ian Justl Ellis, MD, CPTLast reviewed August 3, 2026Editorial policy

Overview

A synthetic pentapeptide containing the C-terminal tetrapeptide sequence of gastrin (Trp-Met-Asp-Phe-NH2) linked to beta-alanine. Pentagastrin stimulates gastric acid secretion by binding to cholecystokinin-2 (CCK2) receptors on parietal cells, and stimulates calcitonin release from thyroid C-cells.

Mechanism of Action

It has been used as a diagnostic agent for both gastric acid secretory capacity testing and provocative testing for medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).

Research Summary & Key Findings

Historically used for gastric acid analysis (pentagastrin stimulation test) to assess maximal acid output. Pentagastrin-stimulated calcitonin test was a standard screening tool for MTC and MEN2 kindreds before genetic testing became available. Product availability has been limited in recent years in many countries. Largely superseded by genetic RET mutation testing for MTC screening and proton pump inhibitor trials for acid-related disorders.

Clinical Status

FDA Approved

Pentagastrin has received FDA approval and is available for clinical use under appropriate medical supervision. Consult a qualified healthcare provider for prescribing information.

Administration Routes

Subcutaneous injectionIntramuscular injection

References

Primary literature

PubMed — "Pentagastrin"
Peer-reviewed literature indexed by the National Library of Medicine.
ClinicalTrials.gov — "Pentagastrin"
Registered interventional and observational studies, including status and phase.
PubChem — "Pentagastrin"
Chemical structure, molecular properties, and bioactivity data.

Study-level citations for this compound are being verified against the primary sources before publication. The database queries above return the current indexed literature in the meantime.

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Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational and research purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any peptide therapy. The Peptide Association does not endorse or recommend any specific treatment protocol. See our editorial policy for how this content is produced and reviewed.