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Effect of misoprostol on immune function in elderly subjects
1Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin 53226.
Prostaglandins
|January 1, 1987
Summary
Short-term misoprostol (prostaglandin E1 analog) use in elderly individuals did not harm immunologic function. A small decrease in IgM-rheumatoid factor was observed, with no adverse effects on immune cells or responses.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Gerontology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Elderly individuals exhibit increased lymphocyte sensitivity to prostaglandin E (PGE).
- Misoprostol is an oral prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) analog with potential immunomodulatory effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the immunologic effects of short-term oral misoprostol administration in elderly subjects.
- To compare immune responses in elderly individuals receiving misoprostol versus placebo.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, placebo-controlled trial involving 50 elderly participants (25 misoprostol, 25 placebo).
- Assessment of various immunologic parameters including lymphocyte counts, T cell subsets, skin test reactivity, immunoglobulin levels, and mitogen response.
- Measurement of IgM-rheumatoid factor and in vitro lymphocyte sensitivity to PGE.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant decrease in IgM-rheumatoid factor in the misoprostol group.
- A significant reduction in the in vitro sensitivity of lymphocytes to PGE inhibition in the misoprostol group.
- No significant differences were observed in total lymphocyte count, T cell subsets, delayed hypersensitivity skin tests, serum immunoglobulins, or mitogen responses.
Conclusions:
- Short-term oral misoprostol administration (two weeks) appears safe for immunologic function in normal elderly individuals.
- The observed changes in IgM-rheumatoid factor and PGE sensitivity warrant further investigation but did not indicate detrimental effects.