Marked Enhanced Efficacy of Cyclosporin When Combined with Hyaluronic Acid

Using two models of chronic inflammation (both T-cell-mediated) in the Wistar rat, we have shown that, when given intravenously, the efficacy of cyclosporin can be markedly enhanced by combining it with sodium hyaluronate 7.5 mg/kg (HA; 500–800 kDa). When tested against avridine polyarthritis and cotton pellet granuloma formation, a marginally effective dose of cyclosporin 2.5 mg/kg could be transformed into a highly effective dose by combining it with HA 7.5 mg/kg. The latter combination appeared to mimic a highly efficacious dose of cyclosporin (10 mg/kg). Although the mechanism of this effect is as yet unclear, the potential clinical benefits are great.