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Cyclosporin in steroid dependent asthma
D Mungan1, Z Misirligil, B Sin
1University of Ankara, Department of Allergic Diseases, Turkey.
Allergologia Et Immunopathologia
|September 1, 1995
Summary
Cyclosporin A (CsA) can reduce steroid needs in severe asthma patients. However, potential side effects require careful consideration against its benefits.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pulmonology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Severe asthma often requires long-term systemic corticosteroid therapy.
- Cyclosporin A (CsA), an immunosuppressant, has shown potential steroid-sparing effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Cyclosporin A in reducing systemic corticosteroid requirements in patients with severe steroid-dependent asthma.
Main Methods:
- A 3-month study involving 12 patients with steroid-dependent asthma.
- Standardized background therapy with inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators, and aminophylline.
- Oral administration of CsA at 3 mg/kg/day, monitoring whole blood CsA levels.
Main Results:
- Significant reduction in daily prednisone dose from a mean of 31.43 mg to 8.57 mg (p < 0.01).
- Average improvement of 34% in Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV1) values.
- Four patients discontinued CsA due to side effects; one patient could not reduce steroid dose.
Conclusions:
- Cyclosporin A demonstrates potential as a steroid-sparing agent in severe steroid-dependent asthma.
- The benefits of CsA must be carefully weighed against its associated side effects.