Clinical Trial for Severe Anemia
Severe anemia in critically ill patients necessitates blood transfusions, which are costly and potentially harmful to patients.
Many critically ill patients are so sick they can no longer produce red blood cells. Epoetin alfa was developed more than 10 years ago to treat anemia in patients undergoing chemotherapy, and is used for certain other conditions including chronic kidney disease. Researchers are conducting trials to determine the safety and efficacy of the drug for treating anemia among critically ill patients. This could dramatically reduce the need for blood transfusions.
Lieutenant Colonel Ethan Emmons, M.D., at Brooke Army Medical Center played a key role in this large-scale clinical trial. Initial studies indicated that epoetin alfa is effective in certain patients. Larger trials will be undertaken to determine optimal doses and long-term safety.
The outcome of this study, which HJF facilitated, could help improve care for critically ill patients. Clinical Trials Office staff at the Foundation represented the researcher's interests when developing the agreement with the study sponsor, simplified IRB paperwork and assisted with the approval process.