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Systemic corticosteroids/methotrexate
This combination suppresses immune system activity through corticosteroid-mediated anti-inflammatory effects and methotrexate-induced immunosuppression via folate antagonism.
This combination suppresses immune system activity through corticosteroid-mediated anti-inflammatory effects and methotrexate-induced immunosuppression via folate antagonism. Used for Rheumatoid arthritis, Systemic lupus erythematosus, Vasculitis.
At a glance
| Generic name | Systemic corticosteroids/methotrexate |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany |
| Drug class | Immunosuppressant combination (corticosteroid + DMARD) |
| Target | Glucocorticoid receptor (corticosteroids); dihydrofolate reductase (methotrexate) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Immunology / Rheumatology |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Systemic corticosteroids reduce inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokine production and immune cell activation. Methotrexate acts as a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) by inhibiting dihydrofolate reductase, reducing cell proliferation and immune responses. Together, they provide complementary immunosuppressive effects for treating autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.
Approved indications
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
- Vasculitis
- Other autoimmune inflammatory conditions
Common side effects
- Infection (opportunistic and bacterial)
- Bone loss / osteoporosis
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Hepatotoxicity
- Myelosuppression
- Hyperglycemia
- Mood changes / insomnia
Key clinical trials
- Effect of Anti-Psoriatic Biologics on Risk of Anogenital Warts (CONDYPSO)
- Effects of Telitacicept vs Cyclophosphamide on Lupus Related Interstitial Lung Disease (PHASE4)
- Atherosclerosis in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lupus: Restoring Cholesterol Balance
- SKIN Disease Profiling by an Exploratory, pRospective, Biomarker Study in dermatoloGY Practice (SKINERGY)
- Baricitinib in CPPD - the BAPTIST Study (PHASE2)
- Evaluation of Vitamin D Levels in Psoriasis Patients
- Observational Study Assessing Outcomes, Treatment Patterns and Related Costs in Patients in Bullous Pemphigoid
- EZN-3042 Administered With Re-induction Chemotherapy in Children With Relapsed Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) (PHASE1)
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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