Measurement of fecal output in rats

A test was developed to quantify fecal output in rats. Narcotic analgesic (diphenoxylate, morphine), ganglionic blocking (mecamylamine) and anticholinergic drugs (atropine) decreased fecal output. Compounds with direct smooth muscle depressant properties (papaverine, mebeverine) did not alter fecal output. Several other drugs were also evaluated. The rat animal model is useful for assessing the effects of various drugs in altering fecal output.