Recording-2025-08-06T20:08:54.228Z

Induction vs. Maintenance Therapy

• Induction Therapy
  • Goal: Achieve rapid disease control or remission in acute or highly active phases.
  • Often involves higher drug doses or combinations with potent immunosuppressants.
  • Short-term risk–benefit trade-off: accept more toxicity for faster control.
• Maintenance Therapy
  • Goal: Sustain remission and prevent flare-ups after induction phase.
  • Uses lower doses, fewer drugs, or agents with better long-term safety profiles.
  • Prioritises minimising cumulative toxicity and monitoring for late adverse effects.

Chronic Management of Connective Tissue Diseases (CTDs)

• Broad Principles
  • Individualise treatment plans based on disease severity, organ involvement, and comorbidities.
  • Balance efficacy (disease suppression) vs. toxicity (drug-related harm).
  • Regular assessments (clinical, laboratory, imaging) to adjust therapy early.
  • Education on adherence, self-monitoring, and lifestyle measures (e.g., sun protection in lupus).
• Step-up/Step-down Strategies
  • Escalate therapy during flares; de-escalate when stable.
  • Integrate non-pharmacological options (physiotherapy, occupational therapy, psychosocial support).