Aspects of the mechanisms of action of benzydamine

Abstract

Benzydamine shows some properties that are common with other nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) but displays also properties which are different from those of other NSAIDs. It inhibits prostaglandin and thromboxane biosynthesis at high concentrations, which however can be reached by topical application of the drug. It has no inhibiting effect on amino-acid decarboxylases, which are inhibited by various NSAIDs. Benzydamine has no effect on sulphydryl-group reactivity, contrary to most NSAIDs. It inhibits platelet aggregation and the inhibition of the collagen-induced aggregation appears to be rather selective with respect to other NSAIDs. It displays a stabilizing effect on erythrocyte membranes which appears related to its high affinity for membranes in general, and it inhibits the respiratory burst of stimulated human monocytes and granule enzyme release by human neutrophils.