Abstract: A method for reducing asthmatic response in a mammal comprising administering a response-reducing amount of O-desulfated heparin to the mammal, thereby reducing the asthmatic response. The amount can be administered by aerosolization. The O-desulfated heparin has O-desulfation at least at the 2-O and 3-O positions.

Abstract: A method and medicament for the inhibition of neutrophil elastase and cathepsin G in mammals comprising administering a treatment effective amount of 2-O-desulfated heparin to a mammal in need thereof. The medicament preferably is administered by aerosolization or by intravenous (IV) injection. Preferably, the 2-O-desulfated heparin medicament includes a physiologically acceptable carrier which may be selected from the group consisting of physiologically buffered saline, normal saline, and distilled water. Additionally provided is a method of synthesizing 2-O-desulfated heparin.

Abstract: A method and medicament for the inhibition of neutrophil elastase and cathepsin G in mammals comprising administering a treatment effective amount of 2-O-desulfated heparin to a mammal in need thereof. The medicament preferably is administered by aerosolization or by intravenous (IV) injection. Preferably, the 2-O-desulfated heparin medicament includes a physiologically acceptable carrier which may be selected from the group consisting of physiologically buffered saline, normal saline, and distilled water. Additionally provided is a method of synthesizing 2-O-desulfated heparin.