Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Salicylates, most notably acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin), have a longstanding history in the management of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Their use dates back to the early to mid-20th century, before the advent of corticosteroids and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Salicylates were administered primarily for their analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory effects, particularly in managing symptoms like joint pain and fever associated with lupus. However, their use was based more on empirical observation and the general anti-inflammatory properties of the drug class rather than on controlled scientific studies specifically targeting lupus pathophysiology.

With the development of more effective and targeted therapies, such as corticosteroids, antimalarials (e.g., hydroxychloroquine), and immunosuppressants, salicylates have largely fallen out of favor for lupus management. Modern guidelines no longer recommend salicylates as a mainstay treatment for SLE, except possibly for mild symptomatic relief or specific circumstances where other therapies are contraindicated. There is a lack of robust scientific evidence or recent clinical trials supporting the efficacy of salicylates in altering the course of lupus or controlling its immunological activity. Thus, their use today is primarily justified by historical precedent rather than by contemporary scientific validation.

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