DrugAlternative line
Cyclosporine A
Calcineurin inhibitor; suppresses T-cell activation and cytokine production
- Response rate
- Variable
- Onset
- Days to weeks
- Route
- Oral 2-5 mg/kg/day
- Line
- Alternative
- IgM effect
- No direct effect
- Evidence level
- amber
Evidence summary
Particularly valuable in the treatment of AOSD-associated macrophage activation syndrome (MAS), where it helps control the hyperinflammatory state by suppressing T-cell and macrophage activation. Also used as a steroid-sparing agent in refractory systemic disease. Requires monitoring of renal function and blood pressure. Often combined with corticosteroids for MAS management.