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Dexamethasone Azathioprine Pulse therapy
This combination therapy uses dexamethasone (a corticosteroid) to suppress inflammation and azathioprine (an immunosuppressant) to inhibit T-cell proliferation, administered in pulse doses for rapid immune modulation.
This combination therapy uses dexamethasone (a corticosteroid) to suppress inflammation and azathioprine (an immunosuppressant) to inhibit T-cell proliferation, administered in pulse doses for rapid immune modulation. Used for Severe autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus nephritis, vasculitis, severe rheumatoid arthritis), Organ transplant rejection prophylaxis.
At a glance
| Generic name | Dexamethasone Azathioprine Pulse therapy |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Injection Decadron , Tablet Imuran Pulse therapy |
| Sponsor | Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre |
| Drug class | Immunosuppressive combination therapy |
| Target | Glucocorticoid receptor (dexamethasone); inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (azathioprine) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Immunology / Rheumatology |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Dexamethasone is a potent glucocorticoid that suppresses inflammatory cytokine production and immune cell activation. Azathioprine is a purine analog that inhibits lymphocyte proliferation by interfering with nucleotide synthesis. Pulse therapy involves high-dose intermittent administration to achieve rapid immunosuppression while potentially reducing cumulative toxicity compared to continuous dosing.
Approved indications
- Severe autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus nephritis, vasculitis, severe rheumatoid arthritis)
- Organ transplant rejection prophylaxis
Common side effects
- Infection (opportunistic and bacterial)
- Hyperglycemia
- Hypertension
- Myelosuppression
- Gastrointestinal disturbance
- Osteoporosis
Key clinical trials
- Comparing DCP and DAP for Pemphigus Vulgaris (PHASE4)
- Immune Thrombocytopenia Management in Adults (PHASE4)
- Immunoadsorption, Dexamethasone Pulse Therapy and Rituximab for Pemphigus (PHASE2)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
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