Abstract

Pancreatitis has been treated since the late 1950’s with agents that suppress pancreatic secretion or inhibit the released enzymes. Five years ago¹ we concluded that aprotinin (Trasylol - Bayer) had not been shown to offer definite benefits. A subsequent trial of this substance² was difficult to assess because of variability among patients selected, of dosage regimens and of other treatment given. One recent trial has overcome some of these problems.³ Glucagon (Lilly) has also now been used in the treatment of acute pancreatitis.^{4 5}