Antipyretic activity of copper salicylate.

Thermal responses to copper II salicylate (200 mg/kg iv) were investigated in febrile rabbits (treated with E. coli lipopolysaccharide) at 3 ambient temperatures (Ta) of 5, 20, 28 degrees C. The compound produced antipyresis, which unlike that induced by sodium salicylate (200 mg/kg iv), increased with the drop of Ta. This antipyretic activity was accompanied by enhanced heat elimination which became most evident in thermoneutral conditions. The metabolic rate was intensified after treatment with both compounds. Possible mechanisms responsible for copper salicylate antipyresis are discussed.