Effects of KW-4679, a New Orally Active Antiallergic Drug, on Antigen-Induced Bronchial Hyperresponsiveness, Airway Inflammation and Immediate and Late Asthmatic Responses in Guinea Pigs

We investigated the effects of KW-4679, an antiallergic drug, on the development of bronchial hyperresponsiveness, airway inflammation and early and late asthmatic responses following aerosol antigen challenge in guinea pigs actively sensitized by the inhalation of aerosolized ovalbumin. Pretreatment with KW-4679 (10 mg/kg, p.o.) 1 h before antigen challenge prevented the development of bronchial hyperresponsiveness to inhaled methacholine. Examination of the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid 24 h after antigen challenge revealed the inhibitory effect of KW-4679 on the infiltration of eosinophils into the airway. Treatment with KW-4679 significantly inhibited both the immediate and late asthmatic responses. These results indicate that KW-4679 could be useful in the treatment of allergic diseases such as bronchial asthma.