PAF antagonists: new data show positive effect in asthma

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In contrast to the disappointing results seen in early trials of platelet-activating factor (PAF) antagonists in patients with asthma, a recent study has indicated that Boehringer Ingelheim’s apafant [WEB-2086] may provide therapeutic benefit. It is possible that previous conclusions regarding PAF-antagonist activity were based on insufficient data. Now, researchers have been provided with a new incentive to continue the development of these agents as an alternative treatment for patients with asthma. The results of the apafant trial were presented at the 5th International Congress on Platelet-Activating Factor and Related Lipid Mediators [ Berlin, Germany; September 1995 ].