Abstract: The present invention provides for crystalline zinc-interferon alfa-2 (IFN .alpha.-2) having a monoclinic morphology. The present invention further provides for crystalline cobalt-IFN .alpha.-2, crystalline calcium-IFN .alpha.-2, and crystalline IFN .alpha.-2 having a serum half-life of at least about 12 hours when injected into a primate. The present invention further provides for a method for producing a crystalline IFN .alpha.-2 comprising forming a soluble metal-IFN .alpha.-2 complex, and equilibrating the soluble metal-IFN .alpha.-2 complex in solution with an acetate salt of the metal under conditions that will cause the metal-IFN .alpha.-2 solution to become supersaturated and form crystalline metal-IFN .alpha.-2. The present invention also includes crystalline metal-alfa interferon having monoclinic, plate and needle morphologies.

Abstract: A method for lowering the blood-serum cholesterol levels in mammals by administering IL-4 is disclosed as well as the use of IL-4 for the manufacture of a medicament for use in lowering blood-serum cholesterol levels.

Abstract: Novel mercapto-acylamino acids useful in the treatment of hypertension and combinations of mercapto-acylamino acids and atrial natriuretic factors or angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors useful for treating hypertension are disclosed.

Abstract: Pharmacuetical compositions for administering a combination of controlled release potassium chloride and immediately-released magnesium salt are disclosed.

Abstract: Individuals are aided in smoking cessation by administering internally phenylpropanolamine.

Abstract: A controlled release potassium chloride tablet is disclosed which is comprised of potassium chloride crystals having a mesh size of about 30 to about 50 mesh which are coated with a coating material comprised of ethylcellulose and hydroxypropylcellulose. The coated crystals form micro pellets which then can be compressed into tablets. The tablets disintegrate rapidly in an aqueous environment thus assuring a more uniform dissolution of the active component as compared with other types of controlled release potassium chloride dosage formulations. The distribution of the potassium chloride micro pellets over a wide surface area in the gastrointestinal mucosa aids in reducing the risk of gastrointestinal lesions. The formation of the coated micro pellets which disperse quickly upon contact with aqueous environment allow for the repeated chronic oral administration of a relatively large dose of potassium chloride (20 mEq).