BMS 582949 is an orally absorbable p38α MAP kinase inhibitor (IC 50 = 13 nM in an enzyme test). It also suppresses TNF-α production in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC; IC 50 = 50 nM). When given at a dose of 5 mg/kg in mice, it reduces LPS-induced TNF-α production by up to 89% compared to the vehicle. BMS 582949 decreases paw swelling in a rat adjuvant arthritis model when administered once or twice daily at varying doses.