Medical Health Encyclopedia

Danazol. Researchers are also investigating the use of danazol (Danocrine), a male hormone. One study reported long-term remission of thrombocytopenia when it was used with the corticosteroid prednisone. As with DHEA, side effects include male characteristics such as acne and hair growth.

Plasmapheresis

Plasmapheresis is a process in which the fluid part of the blood, called plasma, is removed from blood cells. The procedure involves first taking blood from the patient. The plasma, which contains the inflammatory antibodies and other immunologically active substances, is discarded and replaced with other fluids. The blood is then returned. Plasmapheresis is not useful for routine management of patients but may have some benefits for patients who do not respond to standard treatments or in specific cases, such as lupus patients with hemolytic anemia.

Investigative Treatments

Monoclonal Antibodies (MAbs). A MAb is a laboratory-made protein that targets specific immune cells, such as B cells. B-cell overactivation has been identified a key component of the SLE disease process. 

• Epratuzamab is being investigated for treatment of moderate to severe SLE. The FDA granted the drug Fast Track status (a designation that speeds up the approval process for promising drugs that address an unmet need). Phase III trials began in 2005.
• Lymphostat-B has also received Fast Track status. Phase II trial data showed mixed results, but the drug will enter Phase III trials.
• Rituximab, a lymphoma cancer drug, is currently in Phase I/II trials to evaluate the safety of higher doses. Initial results in several small trials indicate significant B-cell reduction with symptom improvement lasting at least one year.

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Leflunomide. Leflunomide (Arava), an anti-rheumatic drug, blocks autoimmune antibodies and reduces inflammation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The drug is now being used for lupus with good results, but requires further study.