Emetic activity of zacopride in ferrets and its antagonism by pharmacological agents

Zacopride administered orally was more emetic in fed than in fasted ferrets. The emetic activity of zacopride (0.1 mg/kg p.o.) was inhibited (100%) by 0.1 mg/kg i.p. of zacopride and 1 mg/kg i.p. of ICS 205-930. Haloperidol (3.16 mg/kg i.p.) and prochlorperazine (3.16 mg/kg i.p.) were weakly effective. N-acetyl-5-hydroxytryptophyl-5-hydroxytryptophan amide, a 5-HT1P antagonist, was inactive. Thus, the emetic activity of zacopride, like that of cisplatin, is blocked by 5-HT3 receptor antagonists.