Inhibitory effect of epinastine on the type II-IV allergic reactions in mice, rats and guinea pigs

Abstract

The inhibitory effect of epinastine (WAL 801 CL, CAS 80012-43-7) on types II, III and IV allergic reactions was studied. Epinastine caused an inhibition of type II allergic reactions: 1. the swelling of rat foot pad induced by a subcutaneous injection of anti-rat rabbit antiserum, and 2. lethality induced by an intravenous injection of anti-SRBC (sheep red blood cells) rabbit serum into guinea pigs (Forssman systemic reaction). The drug also caused an inhibition of the early phase in active Arthus reaction in guinea pigs (type III reactions). However, no significant inhibition was detected in the delayed-hypersensitivity reaction (type IV allergic response) induced by sheep red blood cells or picryl chloride in mice.