Il-4 is one of several cytokines, or growth factors, involved in inflammation. A number of other cytokines are being looked at for antiasthma therapy, speakers said, but none are near the clinic or seem to have as much potential as Il-4. Donald Stevenson, M.D., of the Scripps Clinic in LaJolla, Calif., said 33 patients with respiratory symptoms due to aspirin were challenged with either celecoxib or rofecoxib, with no respiratory re-actions. The next day, they were challenged with aspirin, and all developed respiratory distress. Stevenson said the study will continue until 60 patients are accrued, at which time it will have statistical significance.
Some herbal drugs can also cause allergic reactions, according to meeting reports.
Raymond Mullins, M.D., John James Medical Centre, Canberra, Australia, found 23 cases of allergic reactions to echinacea. Further study of 100 atopic persons who had never taken echinacea showed positive skin tests to it, possibly due to cross-reactivity with other environmental allergens. Mullins said his study suggests allergic individuals should be cautioned about this herb. Jean McCann Based in Ohio, the author has extensive experience covering national and international medical and pharmaceutical meetings.