The Role of Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole in Preventing Infections in SLE Patients
Study Overview
This study focused on patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) who are at risk for infections while receiving low-level immunosuppressive treatment. The goal was to see if trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX) could help prevent these infections.
Methodology
The trial was conducted at Ramathibodi Hospital from May 2021 to December 2022. SLE patients were randomly assigned to receive either TMP/SMX or no treatment. Researchers monitored infection rates and side effects over 12 months.
Results
The trial ended early due to a high rate of side effects linked to TMP/SMX. Out of 138 patients, none developed infections, but 14.3% experienced adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Most reactions were mild, but some were more severe, leading patients to stop the treatment.
Conclusions
Over the 12 months, no infections were found in patients taking TMP/SMX, indicating that this treatment may not provide significant benefits for SLE patients on low-level immunosuppressive therapy. The high rate of side effects highlights the need for careful evaluation by healthcare providers.
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