In vitro effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs on human polymorphonuclear cells and lymphocyte migration

1. The action of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), sodium salicylate, aspirin, phenylbutazone and indomethacin was investigated on the migration of human polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs) and lymphocytes, using the system of migration of leucocytes from glass capillary tubes. 2. All NSAID produced a dose-dependent inhibition of cell migration, and were more effective on the migration of the PMN than on lymphocytes. 3. Drugs optimally suppressed PMN migration after 20 to 24 h incubation, and lymphocytes after 3 to 6 h. 4. Prolonged incubation of cells with several concentrations of NSAID demonstrated an 'escape' from inhibition in PMNs prepared from one subject.