USE OF IMMUNOMODULATIVE THERAPIES IN AUTOIMMUNE DISEASES: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW OF CLINICAL STUDIES

Abstract

Immunomodulatory therapies have emerged as fundamental strategies in the management of autoimmune diseases, allowing a more targeted approach to control exacerbated immune activity. This integrative review aimed to analyze clinical studies investigating the efficacy and safety of different immunomodulatory therapies, including cytokine inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies and immune costimulation modulators. Forty-five studies addressing major autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus and inflammatory bowel diseases, were included. The results indicate that these therapies provide significant improvement in patients' quality of life and control of disease progression. However, the risks of adverse effects, such as infections and organ dysfunctions, remain critical concerns. It is concluded that the use of immunomodulators represents a promising evolution in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, but requires rigorous and continuous monitoring. Future studies should focus on therapeutic individualization and the development of predictive biomarkers to optimize treatment response.