budesonide (Takeda)

Budesonide (TAK-721) is a synthetic corticosteroid formulated as a mucoadherent oral suspension specifically for the treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). Developed by Takeda (following the acquisition of Shire), this formulation is designed to coat the esophagus, allowing for localized delivery and prolonged contact with the esophageal mucosa. As a potent glucocorticoid receptor agonist, budesonide exerts anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the recruitment of inflammatory cells, such as eosinophils, and downregulating the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This targeted approach minimizes systemic exposure while effectively managing the chronic allergic/immune-mediated inflammation characteristic of EoE. In February 2024, the FDA approved this formulation under the brand name Eohilia for patients aged 11 years and older, marking the first FDA-approved oral medication for this indication.

Brand names

Eohilia

Other names

budesonide oral suspensionmucoadherent budesonide oral suspension