Use of immunosuppressive drugs in the treatment of kidney disease
Immunosuppressive drugs are commonly used to treat kidney disease. They work by inhibiting the immune system's response, which reduces the risk of rejection of the transplanted organ, and also help control inflammation and autoimmunity.
Kidney transplantation is one of the most effective therapies for patients with kidney failure, but it requires constant and precise selection of immunosuppressive pharmacotherapy. The introduction of appropriate immunosuppressive drugs reduces the body's defensive response to the transplanted organ, which increases its chances of survival.
Cyclosporine is one of the main immunosuppressive drugs used for treatment after kidney transplantation. It is a calcineurin inhibitor, which leads to a decrease in the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Cyclosporine is administered orally, and its blood levels are monitored to adjust the dosage to the individual patient's needs.
Tacrolimus is another popular immunosuppressive drug used to treat kidney disease. It is a calcineurin inhibitor, similar to cyclosporine, but its action is more selective. Tacrolimus eliminates uncontrolled immune responses, but with greater precision, which minimizes the side effects associated with immune suppression.
Mofetilac is another immunosuppressive drug used in the treatment of kidney transplantation. It is a guanosine synthase inhibitor, which reduces the production of DNA and RNA in immune cells. Mofetilizine is administered orally, and its blood levels are monitored to adjust the dosage according to the patient's individual needs.
Azathioprine, a drug that belongs to the immunosuppressive cytostatic group, is also used to treat kidney disease. It is a prodrug that is metabolized in the body to an active metabolite that inhibits the activity of T and B lymphocytes. Azathioprine can be administered orally or intravenously, depending on the individual patient's needs.
Mycophenolate mofetil is another drug used in immunosuppressive therapy for kidney disease. It is an inhibitor of IMP dehydrogenase synthase, an enzyme that is essential for purine synthesis in T and B lymphocytes. Mycophenolate mofetil reduces the production of antibodies, which has a beneficial effect on controlling the rejection of transplanted organs.
An important aspect of the use of immunosuppressive drugs in the treatment of kidney disease is the monitoring of drug levels in the blood, as well as the assessment of the patient's renal function and general condition. Regular laboratory tests are essential to keep therapy on track.
The conclusion is that immunosuppressive drugs play a key role in the treatment of kidney disease, especially after organ transplantation. Their use, however, requires precise selection and monitoring to ensure the best therapeutic effects for the patient while minimizing side effects.
Sources:
KDIGO clinical practice guideline for the care of kidney transplant recipients. Kidney International. 2009
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Immunosuppressive Medications: kidney transplantation.