The current investigation demonstrates that cricoid pressure reflexly decreases LES tone and barrier pressure in awake subjects. Although metoclopramide increased LES and barrier pressures, it did not attenuate cricoid pressure-induced relaxation of the LES and barrier pressures and thus seems to have no value in preventing gastroesophageal reflux during cricoid pressure. Metoclopramide may be useful in preventing reflux when there is need to release or discontinue cricoid pressure.