Differential inhibition of LTD4-mediated bronchopulmonary effects by salbutamol

The effects of systemically administered salbutamol on LTD4-induced changes in pulmonary mechanics and tracheal microvascular permeability in the anesthetized guinea pig were compared. Salbutamol (50 micrograms/kg i.v.) virtually abolished the decreases in Cdyn and Gaw produced by i.v. LTD4, but did not alter the LTD4-induced increase in tracheal microvascular permeability. Thus, it appears that although the spasmolytic properties of salbutamol may profoundly inhibit LTD4-mediated bronchoconstriction, salbutamol might only be of limited value in reducing the airway inflammatory effects of LTD4.