2-(2-hydroxy-4-methylphenyl)aminothiazole hydrochloride as a dual inhibitor of cyclooxygenase/lipoxygenase and a free radical scavenger. 2nd communication: anti-inflammatory activity.

The paper describes the topical anti-inflammatory activity of 2-(2-hydroxy-4-methylphenyl)aminothiazole hydrochloride (CBS-113 A), a dual inhibitor of cyclooxygenase/lipoxygenase and a potent free radical scavenger. When applied in eye drops (0.01 to 0.1% according to the model used), the drug inhibited inflammation in experimental conjunctivitis and uveitis induced by various procedures (e.g. paracentesis, endotoxin, S-antigen, albumin, Fe2+). The compound also inhibited leukocyte infiltration and histamine release when administered locally in pleural cavity with carrageenan. CBS-113 A could decrease plasma leakage induced by arachidonic acid or platelet activating factor in skin and airway, respectively. However, it was devoid of any activity when administered by systemic route. The compound appears as a potentially useful anti-inflammatory drug, in particular in ophthalmology and as an alternative to glucocorticoids, since it does not present the side effects of these steroids (e.g. worsening of herpetic keratitis).