Poor Long-Term Efficacy of Swallowed Topical Corticosteroids in Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Less than 10% of patients achieved complete remission after years of therapy, and most who did relapsed shortly after drug discontinuation.

Swallowed topical corticosteroid (STC) therapy, using a budesonide slurry or fluticasone, has been the only effective pharmacologic therapy for patients with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). Optimal dosing and treatment duration both remain unknown, as some patients experience relapse despite continued treatment, while the majority experience relapse after cessation.

To evaluate the effectiveness of long-term use of STCs in EoE, researchers in Switzerland retrospectively assessed outcomes in 350 patients treated with STCs. Induction treatment was 1.0 mg twice daily of budesonide or fluticasone until clinical response, followed by 0.25 mg for maintenance therapy. Validated endoscopic and symptom assessments were used, and endoscopic exams were…

Reviewing Author

David A. Johnson, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory boardMedscape/WebMD; Pfizer; CRH Medical Corporation; Aries

EquityCRH Medical Corporation

Editorial boardsMedscape Gastroenterology

Leadership positions in professional societiesAmerican College of Gastroenterology Research Institute Board of Directors