Method of promoting mucosal hydration with certain uridine, adenine and cytidine diphosphates and analogs thereof

US6331529A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• Inspire Pharmaceuticals, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Benjamin R. Yerxa · Raleigh, US
• Janet L. Rideout · Raleigh, US
• Arthur C. Jones · Durham, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Feb 25, 2000
• Grant date: Dec 18, 2001
• Expiry date: Feb 25, 2020

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61P43/00
• WIPO field: Pharmaceuticals
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

A method and preparation for the stimulation of mucosal hydration in a subject in need of such treatment is disclosed. The method comprises administering to the mucosal surfaces of the subject a purinergic receptor agonist such as uridine 5'-diphosphate (UDP), dinucleotides, cytidine 5'-diphosphate (CDP), adenosine 5'-diphosphate (ADP), or their therapeutically useful analogs and derivatives, in an amount effective to stimulate mucin secretion. Pharmaceutical formulations and methods of making the same are also disclosed. Methods of administering the same would include: topical administration via a liquid, gel, cream, or as part of a contact lens or selective release membrane; or systemic administration via nasal drops or spray, inhalation by nebulizer or other device, oral form (liquid or pill), injectable, intra-operative instillation or suppository form. A method for facilitating the expectoration of sputum for the purpose of detecting cellular abnormalities indicative of lung disease is also disclosed.