Experimental comparative study of cyclosporin a CYA versus currently used immunosuppressive drugs

ABSTRACT

72 Ginea pigs were prepared and randomized to demonstrate the adverse effects of long term therapy of cyclosporine A [Cy A] and other currentely used immunosuppressive drugs [methotrexate, azathioprine, prednisone of the spleen, liver and kidney and also to estimate the effects of these drugs on the brain monoamines content and plasma cortisol level. From our histopathological and biochemical findings, it was concluded that Cy A is the safest and least toxic drug as compared with the ordinary immunsupressive drugs. On the other hand, it was clear that Cy A is the only drug which rises the plasma cortisol level and brain monoamines content significantly and may had a role in the pathogensis of induced system ic hypertension and cushingoid features associated with prolonged administration of this drug, a point that may be taken in consideration in therapeutic uses of Cy A as a potent immunosuppressive agent in transplanted patients