[Regulation of the functions of human leukocytes by oxametacine]

Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as oxametacine, are generally used in treatment of rheumatoid disease. In an 'in vitro' experimental model, the drug efficacy was tested on leukocyte functions. Locomotion, both random and directional, phagocytic activity and superoxide production of normal and rheumatoid PMNL were tested in the presence of varying concentrations of oxometacine. Locomotion was evaluated by using modified Boyden chambers; phagocytosis was tested by number of yeast particles injested and by NBT reduction; superoxide production was assayed by reduction of ferricytochrome C. In our conditions the drug exhibited a strong anti-inflammatory effect. In fact, chemotaxis and anion production were specifically depressed in a dose-dependent way.