Abstract: The invention relates to novel cyclic compounds which have the ability to modulate the activity of G protein-coupled receptors. The compounds preferably act as antagonists. In preferred embodiments, the invention provides cyclic peptidic and peptidomimetic antagonists of C5a receptors, which are active against C5a receptors on polymorphonuclear leukocytes and macrophages. The compounds of the invention are both potent and selective, and are useful in the treatment of a variety of inflammatory conditions.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical formulation comprising azapropazone, a pharmaceutically-acceptable metabolizable carbohydrate, and a solubilizing agent which is a carboxylate of an alkali metal, alkaline earth metal, or ammonium, wherein the minimum molar ratio of carbohydrate to azapropazone is 1:1, the minimum molar ratio of carboxylate to azapropazone is 1:1, and the pH of an aqueous solution of said formulation is within the range 2 to 8.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical preparation comprising indomethacin as active anti-inflammatory drug and a metabolizable carbohydrate and a salt of a metabolic carboxylic acid and a metabolizable carbohydrate to protect both the stomach and the intestinal tract against damage by the drug.

Abstract: A formulation which allows administration of aspirin and like drugs and avoids gastrointestinal damage to a significant extent is described. A preferred formulation particularly useful for protecting the gastric mucosal lining of arthritic sufferers on a prolonged aspirin medication program comprises aspirin, glucose and sodium acetate or sodium citrate. A like composition containing dibromoaspirin in lieu of aspirin is helpful in reducing gastrointestinal damage to persons suffering from sickle cell disease and who regularly take dibromoaspirin.

Abstract: Compositions containing neural copper complexes, particularly copper-salicylate complexes having the formula Cu[C.sub.6 H.sub.4 (X)COO].sub.2. Y in which Y represents dimethylsulfoxide, dimethylformamide or an alkanol and in which X is preferably --OH, together with a pharmaceutically acceptable, non-aqueous carrier have been found to have therapeutic activity in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. The compositions have been found particularly suitable for the treatment of arthritis.