Patent Evaluation: Methods for Treating Interstitial Cystitis and Urethral Syndrome

Summary

Novelty: The use of nifedipine for the treatment of interstital cystitis and urethral syndrome is claimed. It is postulated that nifedipine breaks an autonomic reflex loop affecting the bladder's vasculature, reversing the ischaemia thought to be the cause of the disorders.

Biology: The clinical and local immune response was investigated in ten female interstitial cystitis patients. Urinary IL-2 inhibitory activity as a marker of cell mediated inflammation was measured using a murine IL-2 dependent cell line. Of nine patients followed for at least four months, only one failed to show significant clinical improvement. Five showed a 50% improvement and three were asymptomatic. IL-2 inhibitory activity was returned to normal in seven patients. Comprehensive data indicating the immunosuppressive and clinical response are presented.

Chemistry: Nifedipine is dimethyl 1,1,4-dihydro-2,6-dimethyl-4-(o-nitrophenyl)-3,5-pyridine carboxylate.

Structure: