       Document 0528
 DOCN  M9640528
 TI    Thalidomide: rationale for renewed use in immunological disorders.
 DT    9604
 AU    Schuler U; Ehninger G; Technische Universitat Dresden, Germany.
 SO    Drug Saf. 1995 Jun;12(6):364-9. Unique Identifier : AIDSLINE
       MED/96134441
 AB    Despite its inherent teratogenic risk, thalidomide has over the years
       proven to be of clinical use in a small number of mainly immunological
       diseases (e.g. erythema nodosum leprosum, Behcet's syndrome and
       rheumatoid arthritis). The mode of action of thalidomide is still poorly
       understood. Recent research has shown a decrease in tumour necrosis
       factor-alpha (TNF alpha) during thalidomide treatment in several
       settings. Others have found altered expression of adhesion molecules.
       Currently, the most interesting new fields of application are the
       prevention and treatment of graft-versus-host disease in allogeneic bone
       marrow transplantation and the treatment of aphthous ulceration in
       HIV-positive patients. Contraceptive measures must be instituted in
       women receiving thalidomide, and careful monitoring for neurological
       adverse effects is required in all patients.
 DE    Bone Marrow Transplantation  Cell Adhesion Molecules/METABOLISM  Female
       Human  HIV Infections/COMPLICATIONS  Immunologic Diseases/*DRUG THERAPY
       Immunosuppressive Agents/ADVERSE EFFECTS/PHARMACOLOGY/  *THERAPEUTIC USE
       Male  Postoperative Complications/PREVENTION & CONTROL  Teratogens
       Thalidomide/ADVERSE EFFECTS/PHARMACOLOGY/*THERAPEUTIC USE  Tumor
       Necrosis Factor/*METABOLISM  JOURNAL ARTICLE  REVIEW  REVIEW, TUTORIAL

       SOURCE: National Library of Medicine.  NOTICE: This material may be
       protected by Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S.Code).

