Inhibition of cytokine release by cocaine

The influence of cocaine on cytokine release by mouse peritoneal macrophages has been investigated in vitro. LPS-stimulated TNF and IL-1 secretion were suppressed by cocaine in higher dosages. This suppression was shown to be dose-related. The synthesis of cAMP, however, was stimulated by cocaine. Though cAMP is generally considered a mediator for cytokine release, further studies are required to demonstrate whether cocaine directly affects cytokine release by macrophages or indirectly influences cytokine release through stimulating cAMP synthesis.