Could a rheumatoid arthritis drug tame chronic GVHD and cut steroid use?
NCT ID NCT04212416
First seen Jul 08, 2026 · Last updated Jul 09, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This trial tests leflunomide, a drug used for rheumatoid arthritis, in people with chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) who depend on steroids. cGVHD is a complication of bone marrow transplant where donor immune cells attack the recipient's body. The goal is to see if leflunomide can safely control cGVHD and reduce the need for steroids, which have serious long-term side effects. The study enrolls 18 adults and focuses on safety and early signs of effectiveness.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- leflunomide
- What this could lead to
- If successful, leflunomide could offer a new option to control chronic GVHD and reduce reliance on steroids, improving quality of life for transplant recipients.
- What could go wrong
- This is an early phase 1 trial with only 18 participants, so safety and effectiveness are not yet established. The drug may cause side effects or fail to show benefit.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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City of Hope Medical Center
Duarte, California, 91010, United States
More trials for these conditions
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