Rituximab vs. azathioprine: which drug better prevents EGPA flares?
NCT ID NCT03164473
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tested whether rituximab (given as an infusion every 6 months) is better than azathioprine (daily pills) at keeping eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) in remission. 98 adults with newly diagnosed or relapsing EGPA who had already achieved remission took part. The goal was to see which drug helped them stay flare-free longer while reducing steroid use.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Rituximab (a biologic drug) and azathioprine (an immunosuppressant)
- What this could lead to
- If rituximab works better, it could offer a more effective way to keep EGPA in remission, reducing flares and the need for steroids.
- What could go wrong
- This is a completed Phase 3 trial with 98 participants, so results are limited in size. Rituximab may not prove superior, and both drugs carry risks like infections.
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
-
Hôpital Cochin
Paris, Paris, 75014, France
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