Introduced by a broad survey of the targets for anti-inflammatory drug s, this book proceeds to bring together the most recent research into the mechanisms and clinical benefits of presently available anti-infla mmatory treatments including corticosteroids, cromones, and theophylli ne. For the first time, these drugs are discussed alongside the newly introduced leukotriene modifier drugs, and in the context of frontline research into anti-inflammatory drugs of the future. Leading authorit ies in their fields evaluate the prospects of novel ant-IgE agents and cytokine antagonists, and examine recent developments in immunosuppre ssant compounds, protease inhibitors, and selective phosphodiesterase inhibitors. This book is an up-to-date and authoritative survey, which will be invaluable to university and pharmaceutical company researche rs working on anti-asthma and anti-allergy drugs and to respiratory ph ysicians wanting to keep abreast of the developments in their specialt y.