Method for treating asthma utilizing optically pure ( R ) - salmeterol

Abstract

The optically pure R(−) isomer of salmeterol, which is substantially free of the S(+) isomer, is a potent bronchodilator for relieving the symptoms associated with asthma in individuals. A method is disclosed utilizing the optically pure R(−) isomer of salmeterol for treating asthma while minimizing toxicity and other side effects associated with salmeterol.

1 . A method of treating asthma in an individual with salmeterol, while reducing toxicity and other side effects associated with salmeterol, comprising administering to the individual a quantity of an optically pure R(−) isomer of salmeterol sufficient to result in broncho-dilation, said R(−) isomer being substantially free of its S(+) isomer.  
     
     
         2 . A method of    claim 1    wherein the amount of the R(−) isomer of salmeterol is greater than approximately 90% by weight.  
     
     
         3 . A method of    claim 2    wherein the amount of the R(−) isomer of salmeterol is greater than 99% by weight.  
     
     
         4 . A method of    claim 1    comprising administering to the individual by inhalation from approximately 25 mcg to approximately 50 mcg of the R(−) isomer of salmeterol per dose.  
     
     
         5 . A method of    claim 1    comprising orally administering to the individual from approximately 1 mg to approximately 8 mg of the R(−) isomer of salmeterol one to four times daily.  
     
     
         6 . A method of treating asthma in an individual with salmeterol, while reducing side effects associated with salmeterol, comprising administering to the individual a quantity of an optically pure R(−) isomer of salmeterol sufficient to result in bronchodilation and at least one additional drug.  
     
     
         7 . A method of    claim 6    wherein the additional drug is selected from the group consisting of bronchodilators, antihistamines and analgesics.  
     
     
         8 . A method of    claim 7    wherein the analgesic is selected from the group consisting of aspirin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen.  
     
     
         9 . A composition comprising an optically pure R(−) isomer of salmeterol and at least one additional drug.  
     
     
         10 . A composition of    claim 9    containing at least 90% by weight of the R(−) isomer of salmeterol.  
     
     
         11 . A composition of    claim 10    containing at least 99% by weight of the R(−) isomer of salmeterol.  
     
     
         12 . A composition of    claim 9    wherein the additional drug is selected from the group consisting of bronchodilators, antihistamines and analgesics.