Decreased consumption of corticosteroids after selenium supplementation in corticoid-dependent asthmatics

• Published in: Bratislavské lékarské listy Vol. 103; no. 1; p. 22
• Main Authors: Gazdik, F, Kadrabova, J, Gazdikova, K
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Slovakia 2002
• Subjects: Administration, Inhalation; Administration, Oral; Adult; Aged; Anti-Asthmatic Agents - administration & dosage; Anti-Inflammatory Agents - administration & dosage; Antioxidants - administration & dosage; Asthma - drug therapy; Asthma - physiopathology; Bronchial Provocation Tests; Female; Glucocorticoids - administration & dosage; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Respiratory Mechanics - drug effects; Selenium - administration & dosage; Steroids
• ISSN: 0006-9248

Selenium represents a trace element comprised in enzyme glutathion-peroxidase. It is anti-inflammatory activity is based on the elimination of hydroperoxides produced in the site of inflammation (scavenger of free oxygen radicals). The authors report the results of a pilot study with 17 corticodependent asthmatics (7 females, 10 males) aged 30-74 years, supplemented with the preparation of selenium (Se), in a daily dose of 200 micrograms during the follow-up lasting 96 weeks. We demonstrate the reduced consumption of both inhaled corticosteroids, manifested after 24 to 96 weeks of Se supplementation (SeS) (21.74 mg vs 15.81 mg, p < 0.009, 21.74 mg vs 15.32 mg, p < 0.007, respectively) and systemic corticosteroids after 48 weeks (294 mg vs 78 mg, p < 0.04) and 96 weeks of SeS (294 mg vs 104 mg, p < 0.04). These results correlated with the elevation of Se levels both in plasma and erythrocytes (p < 0.0003, p < 0.0003, respectively). No adverse effects were seen during the study and the tolerance of preparation was good. (Tab. 3, Ref. 17.)