Airway Alkalinization as Therapy for Airway Diseases

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method of treating asthma by raising the pH of the airways of an individual. The effect can be mediated directly by administering a pharmaceutically acceptable basic solution or alternatively, the effect can be mediated by enhancing the activity of glutaminase.

1 - 41 . (canceled)  
   
   
       42 . A method for enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of inhaled S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) used in the treatment of asthma and other airway diseases of a patient comprising 
 combining at least one non-toxic, alkaline composition, selected from the group consisting of acetate salts, ammonium salts, phosphate salts, bicarbonate salts, glycine and glutamine together with a basic buffer having an alkaline pKa, and    administering the combination in an aerosol form to the airways of a patient.    
   
   
       43 . The method of  claim 42  wherein the combination is administered simultaneously with the inhaled GSNO.  
   
   
       44 . The method of  claim 42  wherein the combination is administered prior to treatment with the inhaled GSNO.  
   
   
       45 . The method of  claim 42  wherein the combination has a pH in the airways of a patient which is either acidic or alkaline.  
   
   
       46 . The method of  claim 45  wherein the combination has a pH of between approximately 6.0 and approximately 10.0.