Glucocorticoids are a mainstay of treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). But due to long-term adverse effects, dose reduction is becoming a crucial part of treat-to-target management goals. However, data regarding the optimum dose target is conflicting. Recommendations from EULAR—The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology—advise a glucocorticoid dose of no more than 5 mg/day. However, the threshold in the validated lupus low disease activity state (LLDAS) definition is no more than 7.5 mg/day.2 It is also still unclear whether it is safe and feasible to withdraw glucocorticoids after achieving remission.
This article was originally published on MedicalXpress.com
