An Italian multidisciplinary Delphi Consensus on new insights about the clinical relevance of Pidotimod
Keywords:
Delphi consensus; multidisciplinary; pidotimod; immune response; immunomodulation.Abstract
Pidotimod is a synthetic dipeptide that modulates both innate and acquired immunity, with the highest number of scientific publications (as documented in PubMed) which have demonstrated its efficacy and safety in different clinical settings. A board of experts promoted a multidisciplinary Delphi Consensus to increase clinicians’ knowledge of the possible areas of pidotimod use and also offer useful tools for informed use based on consolidated data. A series of statements concerning the use of pidotimod in different clinical settings and conditions was anonymously voted on by a panel of qualified Italian specialists, including pediatricians, otorhinolaryngologists, allergologists, and pulmonologists, using a web platform. All the statements obtained full agreement from the panel about the scientific value of evidence on pidotimod efficacy and safety in managing children and adults with recurrent respiratory infections, both in prevention and add-on therapy. In addition, there was agreement about the use of pidotimod in specific situations, including combined therapy (antibiotics plus pidotimod) for pneumonia, Down syndrome, COVID-19, PFAPA, wheezing, and urinary infections. In conclusion, pidotimod is a safe and effective drug helpful in preventing recurrent respiratory infections in susceptible patients and as an adjuvant in managing patients with infections.
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