Abstract: A compound of Formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, is disclosed: ##STR1## wherein: n is from 1 to 6;X is --OH or --SH;A and B are each independently selected from the group consisting of: ##STR2## wherein R is H or Br. The compounds are useful in the treatment of airway diseases such as cystic fibrosis. Pharmaceutical formulations comprising a compound of Formula (I), and methods of hydrating mucous secretions in the lungs of a subject in need of such treatment, comprising administering to the lungs of the subject a compound of Formula I as given above, are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of facilitating the clearance of retained pulmonary secretions in a subject using lantibiotics is disclosed. The method comprises administering to the lungs of the subject an effective amount of a lantibiotic. The lantibiotic is preferably administered by topically applying it to the respiratory epithelia, such as by generating an aerosol thereof which is then inhaled by the subject. A preferred lantibiotic for carrying out the present invention is duramycin. The method may be used in treating disorders such as cystic fibrosis, chronic bronchitis, and asthma. Also disclosed is a method of combatting tuberculosis comprising administering a lantibiotic to a subject in need of such treatment.