Objective of Treatment of Patients with EoE

The primary objective of treatment of EoE is to reduce the number of eosinophils in the oesophagus and thereby address the cause of the inflammation and the other adverse changes. Reducing the number of eosinophils allows the normal healing mechanisms in the oesophagus to operate and for people with EoE to experience improvement of their symptoms as a result.

Treatment with locally acting (topical) steroids

How effective are locally acting (topical) steroids?

Locally acting steroid treatments are designed to act directly on the lining of your oesophagus (the mucosa) to target the affected area. Some of these steroids come in spray form and are normally used to treat asthma. For EoE, you swallow the spray rather than inhaling it.

An analysis of several studies showed that around 65% (more than 85% in one study) of patients receiving this treatment experienced a reduction in eosinophil levels in the oesophagus as well as an improvement in, or a resolution of, their symptoms after six to 12 weeks of treatment.^5,6

When you take locally acting steroids in this way, only small quantities are absorbed into the blood and so they are normally well tolerated .

Your doctor will explain your medication to you.

What are the side effects/limitations of locally acting steroids?

Fungal infections (candida or thrush) are common, occurring in your mouth, and/or throat, and/or oesophagus. These are usually mild and treated with antifungal medication. Some people with EoE may not experience this side effect at all. Always speak to your doctor if you are experiencing any type of side effect.