.webp&w=384&q=75){kind=logo}
Loading, please wait...
Loading, please wait...
Recent clinical advancements suggest that biological drugs for Sjögren disease could transform the management of salivary dysfunction. Sjögren disease often causes systemic complications, with dry mouth being a hallmark symptom. Researchers are now evaluating how novel biological agents target the underlying pathophysiology of this condition. Consequently, these therapies may offer new hope for patients struggling with persistent hyposalivation.
A systematic review analyzed fourteen randomized clinical trials involving 1,772 patients to assess therapeutic efficacy. The studies focused on various agents, including rituximab, iscalimab, and human interferon (IFN)-α. Specifically, four trials reported that rituximab and iscalimab led to a significant increase in unstimulated whole salivary flow. Furthermore, participants experienced a noticeable improvement in dry mouth sensations. These findings indicate that these agents may restore glandular activity more effectively than traditional palliative care. However, other biologicals like infliximab and tocilizumab did not demonstrate similar benefits in this review. Most patients tolerated the treatments well, with the researchers observing no relevant adverse effects across the included studies.
The potential benefits of these therapies highlight a shifting landscape in autoimmune treatment. Moreover, the integration of biological drugs into clinical practice requires careful patient selection. While rituximab and iscalimab show promise, larger and more standardized trials are still necessary. This will help doctors determine the optimal timing and dosage for these interventions. Currently, these drugs provide a valuable alternative when standard secretagogues fail to provide relief. Additionally, clinicians should remain updated on emerging data regarding long-term safety and efficacy profiles.
Research indicates that rituximab, iscalimab, and human interferon-α are among the most promising biological agents for improving salivary flow and reducing xerostomia symptoms.
The recent systematic review observed no relevant adverse effects in the clinical trials studied, suggesting that these agents are generally well-tolerated by patients.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or a professional relationship between the reader and the author. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.
References
Seoane-Romero JM et al. Effectiveness of biological drugs in the treatment of xerostomia and salivary hypofunction in patients with Sjögren disease. J Am Dent Assoc. 2026 Mar 10. doi: undefined. PMID: 41805268.
Pijpe J, Vissink A, Kallenberg CG. The Future of Biologic Agents in the Treatment of Sjögren's Syndrome. Rheum Dis Clin North Am. 2016;42(3):519-533. doi: 10.1016/j.rdc.2016.03.010.
Grader-Beck T. Novel Biologic for Sjogren's Clears Penultimate Hurdle. MedPage Today. October 30, 2025.
Read summarized clinical updates, watch expert medical content, and earn CME certifications right from your smartphone.
Open your smartphone camera to scan and install.
A systematic review highlights the effectiveness of biological drugs like rituximab and iscalimab in treating salivary dysfunction in Sjögren disease....
4 months ago
Andhra Pradesh reported 10 new Covid-19 cases, taking the state tally to 49 while deaths remain at four. With 24 patients hospitalized and 16 under home isolation, the Health Department has intensified monitoring. Medical professionals should review regional distribution, diagnostic protocols, and management plans.
Today
An 11-year Swedish registry study of 618 uterine sarcoma patients found that minimally invasive surgery yielded survival comparable to open surgery in early stages. However, adjuvant chemotherapy conferred no survival benefit in localized or advanced disease, highlighting stage and histology as key outcomes.
3 days back
A cross-sectional study evaluates post-intensive care syndrome in cardiac patients 2-4 weeks post-ICU discharge, highlighting cognitive, psychological, and functional impairments and the need for structured multidisciplinary rehabilitation.
3 days back
Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction failure lacks uniform definition. A narrative review proposes an integrative framework incorporating objective and subjective instability, persistent pain, restricted motion, graft rupture, and secondary meniscal injury to standardize clinical reporting.
3 days back
With World Obesity Atlas data warning that over 41 million Indian children are overweight or obese, ICMR and NIN have unveiled a 10-point policy roadmap. The initiative calls for mandatory front-of-pack labeling, HFSS taxes, strict marketing bans, and healthier school environments to curb non-communicable diseases.
Today
