Substance 48/80 and experimental inflammation.

Substance 48/80 (condensation product of p-methoxy-N-methylphenethylamine with formaldehyde) is known to cause release of histamine and serotonin from the granules in mastocytes. The effect of this substance on the course of experimental inflammation was studied in rats. It was found that substance 48/80 produced local reactions (paw oedema, pleural exudate), while after systemic administration it exerted an antiexudative and antioedematous effect. It is suggested that local signs after administration of the substance are caused, probably, by histamine and serotonin release from the mastocytes and participation of these substances in the inflammatory reaction, since this reaction was partly blocked by antihistamine and antiserotonin agents. The mechanism of inhibition of the inflammatory reactions after systemic administration of the substance is discussed.