Antiinflammatory effect of a lipoxygenase inhibitor (FLM 5011) in severe active myocarditis

FLM 5011 belongs to a group of chemical compounds with isolated lipoxygenase products in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes and alveolar macrophages. FLM 5011 has been shown to be protective against arachidonic acid-induced bronchoconstriction in vitro and in vivo. No severe side-effects were found in extensive tests on acute and subchronic toxicity in animals. In preliminary investigations on patients with severe active myocarditis impressive clinical and histological improvements after administration of FLM 5011 have been obtained, suggesting an antiinflammatory effect of the substance. A follow-up of more than 13 months compared with conventional immunosuppressive therapy indicates potential therapeutic value of this compound on the inflamed myocardium.