Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, SLE Clinical Trial
Official title:
The Effect of Gradual Withdrawal Versus Maintenance of Low-dose Glucocorticoid in Clinically Quiescent Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, a Pilot Randomized Placebo Controlled Trial.
This study aims compare the flare rate of maintenance versus gradual withdrawal of 5 mg/day prednisone in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients with clinically quiescent disease.
Glucocorticoids (GCs) remains the mainstay of treatment in SLE. Prolong used of glucocorticoid can be leading to various organ damage, even in low dose (< 7.5 mg/day). The rational of tapering GCs in SLE who achieve remission or low disease activity is still debated. Recent trial showed the abrupt discontinuation of GCs in sustained clinical remission of SLE increased rate of flare. This study aims compare the flare rate of maintenance versus gradual withdrawal of 5 mg/day prednisone over 24 weeks in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients with clinically quiescent disease. ;