| abstract |
The present invention provides methods of treating an inflammatory disorder, or a disorder having an inflammatory component, in a mammalian subject in need of such treatment by administering to said subject an effective amount of a composition in unit dosage form for delivery of a daily dose of said composition, said composition consisting essentially of: (i) an effective amount of γ-linolenic acid (GLA) for increasing dihomogammalinolenic acid (DGLA) levels in the inflammatory cells of said mammalian subject, thereby inhibiting the metabolism of arachidonic acid; (ii) an effective amount of a Δ 5 desaturase inhibitor for inhibiting accumulation of arachidonic acid in the serum of said mammalian subject; and, optionally, (iii) an effective amount of a competitive inhibitor of arachidonic acid metabolism. Preferred formulations may be in the form of a good tasting, preferably milk or fruit based drink, or a dried powder. The compositions reduce inflammation and inhibit the increase in serum arachidonic acid associated with gamma-linolenic acid. |