MODIFICATION OF CYTOKINE PRODUCTION BY PIROXICAM

Objective. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs have been thought to ac t by inhibiting the enzyme, cyclooxygenase (prostaglandin H synthetase ). We sought to demonstrate additional biologic actions of this class of drugs including effects on cytokine production. Methods. We adminis tered the nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug piroxicam 20 mg to 6 heal thy volunteers daily for 7 days. Before and for one week after drug ad ministration, concentrations of interleukin 1 (IL-1), IL-2, IL-4, IL-6 , tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha) and interferon-gamma (IFN-ga mma), produced by anti-CD3 stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cel ls, were measured. Results. Piroxicam treatment resulted in elevation of levels of IL-2, depression of IL-1, IL-6, TNF alpha and IFN-gamma, and no consistent effect on IL-4. Conclusion. Piroxicam modulates prod uction of various cytokines in a complex fashion when administered to healthy individuals.