Since Exjade, iron chelation has become a more bearable and fruitful exercise. It is definitely where technology has exponentially increased “Quality of Life” for Thalassemia patients.
Today, I have an important update. Let’s start with the bad news: Exjade has caused a near-record number of fatalities in the past year. The FDA has already put out a very important detailed boxed warning which carries necessary instructions for early diagnosis of the dangers. Novartis, the creators of Exjade, have also posted a valuable guide with further instructions on managing these adverse affects.
On the good side, Ferrokin BioSciences are introducing a competing oral chelator – if all tests are passed successfully – for now known as “FBS0701”.
On another note, good news also comes from HemaQuest which has cut strides towards a transfusion-substitute in the form of an oral medication (currently named “HQK-1001”). The main goal of this medication is “induction of fetal globin and stimulation of red blood cell production” so that no transfusion is further required. This will override any dangers from transfusion, either for the lifetime of a Thalassemia patient or at least until a suitable cure is found if a Bone-Marrow Transplant is not feasible.
Thanks to all the site friends who provided these updates, and please feel free to comment and maybe add your own information.
