Does systemically administered azithromycin have an effect on gingival overgrowth? A systematic review

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Oral Medicine
• Periodontology

Background:

• Cyclosporine A (CsA) is a common immunosuppressant.
• CsA can cause gingival overgrowth (GO), a significant side effect.
• Managing CsA-mediated GO often requires interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review studies on systemic azithromycin (AZM) for CsA-induced gingival overgrowth (GO).
• To evaluate the efficacy of AZM in reducing GO.
• To explore AZM as a potential treatment alternative.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search up to January 1, 2019.
• Inclusion of human clinical trials (>10 patients, ≥6 months follow-up).
• Included studies involved systemic AZM administration.

Main Results:

• Six publications with data from 104 patients were included.
• Significant heterogeneity observed in study designs and GO measurement.
• All included studies reported a beneficial effect of AZM in reducing GO.

Conclusions:

• Limited evidence suggests systemic AZM reduces CsA-mediated GO.
• Azithromycin may be a viable alternative to surgical GO reduction.
• Further research is warranted to confirm efficacy and optimal dosing.