OKY-1581: a selective inhibitor of thromboxane synthesis in vivo and in vitro.

OKY-1581 is an effective inhibitor of thromboxane synthesis in vivo and in vitro. The generation of thromboxane B2 (TxB2), prostaglandin E (PGE) and prostaglandin F (PGF) was measured following clotting and during platelet aggregation induced by collagen. The presence of OKY 1581 either in vivo or in vitro caused a reduction in TxB2 generation during clotting and platelet aggregation with a concomitant increase in PGE and PGF. The effect could be observed two hours after oral or subcutaneous administration of 5 to 100 mg per rabbit and lasted for 24 to 48 hours. The reduction in TxB2 was not accompanied by an inhibition of clotting or platelet aggregation. OKY-1581 appears to be a suitable agent for studying the role of TxB2 in atherosclerosis.