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High-dose corticosteroid pulse therapy
High-dose corticosteroid pulse therapy delivers large intravenous doses of corticosteroids (typically methylprednisolone) to rapidly suppress immune and inflammatory responses.
High-dose corticosteroid pulse therapy delivers large intravenous doses of corticosteroids (typically methylprednisolone) to rapidly suppress immune and inflammatory responses. Used for Severe autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus nephritis, vasculitis), Acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis, Severe organ rejection in transplantation.
At a glance
| Generic name | High-dose corticosteroid pulse therapy |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | Tianjin Medical University General Hospital |
| Drug class | Corticosteroid |
| Target | Glucocorticoid receptor |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Immunology |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
This treatment involves administering supraphysiologic doses of corticosteroids intravenously over short periods to achieve potent immunosuppression and anti-inflammatory effects. The high doses overwhelm immune cell function, reduce cytokine production, and suppress T-cell and B-cell activation more effectively than conventional oral corticosteroid regimens. It is commonly used in acute, severe autoimmune and inflammatory conditions where rapid disease control is critical.
Approved indications
- Severe autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus nephritis, vasculitis)
- Acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis
- Severe organ rejection in transplantation
- Acute severe inflammatory conditions refractory to conventional therapy
Common side effects
- Hyperglycemia
- Hypertension
- Insomnia and mood disturbances
- Infection (opportunistic)
- Electrolyte abnormalities
- Osteoporosis (with repeated use)
Key clinical trials
- Intravenous Immunoglobulin for the Treatment of Acute Exacerbations of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (PHASE3)
- Modified Zipper Therapy for AQP4-IgG Positive Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (PHASE4)
- MYTHS - MYocarditis THerapy With Steroids (PHASE3)
- Multicentre Clinical Study to Evaluate the Effect of Personalized Therapy on Patients With Immunoglobulin A Nephropathy. (PHASE4)
- The Effect of Curcumin on the Clinical Outcome of Pediatric Patients with Active Lupus Nephritis (PHASE2)
- Tocilizumab in Corticosteroid-Resistant Graves' Orbitopathy (Thyroid Eye Disease)
- LUSZ Treatment Efficacy in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients (PHASE1)
- Safety and Tolerability of ISX (Isoxsuprine HCL) in MS Relapses (PHASE1, 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 |