Inhibition of the late asthmatic response to house dust mite by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Bronchial provocation with house dust mite allergen in subjects allergic asthma may be followed by an early and a delayed phase of bronchospasm. The latter can be prevented by DSCG or by corticosteroids. A representative subject was studied to determine the effect of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) on the late reaction. Indomethacin, benoxaprofen or acetylsalicylic acid given before allergen exposure inhibited the delayed bronchospasm. Sodium salicylate was ineffective, as were indomethacin or benoxaprofen when given after the early phase of bronchospasm. The mechanism of action of these compounds was thought to be by inhibition of arachidonic acid metabolism via the cyclo-oxygenase pathway and this appears to be a pre-requisite for the appearance of a late reaction following house dust mite inhalation.