| Author |
Bob Williamson AO, FRS
• Professor of Medical Genetics
• University of Melbourne
• Melbourne, Australia
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
July 15, 2006
WILLIAMSON REFLECTS ON CF DEVELOPMENTS
Rumours, rumours! During the past year, rumours have been circulating that there have been several promising new drugs developed that may be useful in treating people living with CF. Over the past thirty years, those who have CF have seen great improvements in treatment already, with better antibiotics, mucolytics, nutrition, physiotherapy and even transplantation. However, we all hope for further improvements. I have heard of two promising leads from the U.S. and France, one of which is a new mucolytic and the other a drug that may “traffic” the mutant (DF508) CFTR protein to the surface of the cell, where it could function more or less normally.
It is important to remember, however, that many promising leads don’t make it to the finishing post. Any new drug has to pass international tests, to make sure it is SAFE and EFFECTIVE. This is to protect patients from harm, and the health care system from a financial burden that brings no corresponding benefit. The doctors and scientists working on new drugs are just as committed as the patients and families to “make things better”, but it requires a bit of patience while all the safety checks and control trials are carried out. In the long run, that is best for everyone.
— Bob Williamson, University of Melbourne
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
|
If you found this article useful and enjoy our online resources please help support this project.
Join the 5 for 5 campaign and donate just $5. Your donation helps to support this website and other programs at CF Worldwide. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
