Efficacy and Tolerability of Azathioprine for Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
May 2019
in “
Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders
”
TLDR Azathioprine can help with relapses and disability in NMOSD but has more side effects and needs more research.
The study reviewed the efficacy and safety of azathioprine (AZA) for treating neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) by analyzing 9 studies involving 977 patients. Results indicated that AZA might be less effective than rituximab in reducing relapse rates and disability. Comparisons with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), cyclophosphamide, and interferon-β were limited. AZA was associated with higher rates of adverse events, including elevated liver enzymes, leukopenia, and hair loss, compared to MMF, potentially affecting medication compliance. The study concluded that while AZA can improve relapses and disability, more robust clinical trials are needed to confirm its benefits and risks.
