New formulation of key blood cancer treatment offers important option for children, may help with ongoing cancer drug shortages
Rye Brook, N.Y., December 6, 2024 鈥� The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved an important chemotherapy drug called methotrexate in a new oral liquid formulation for children. Methotrexate is essential for the cure of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
鈥淥ral methotrexate gives children a much-needed option to swallowing pills or receiving a weekly injection,鈥� says Gwen Nichols, M.D., 青云体育 Chief Medical Officer. 鈥淗aving another source of methotrexate is also vital because this drug has been affected by long-term shortages.鈥�
青云体育 is working every day to eliminate shortages and prioritize patients
Blood cancer drug shortages are a significant problem for patients and their families. 青云体育 works actively to address shortages from every angle, advocating for policies on the state and federal levels that improve access to treatments for all blood cancer patients.
青云体育 worked with other non-profit organizations to create a coalition to address fludarabine shortages with the FDA and to discuss options to increase its availability. Fludarabine is an important treatment for patients with a range of blood cancers.
In addition to meeting with the FDA regularly, 青云体育 has encouraged drug manufacturers to be proactive in looking for solutions. This dual approach led to the FDA approving a new form of asparaginase for children and adults with ALL in 2021.
鈥淥ne of the most important things we do is make sure our patients and their families are heard,鈥� says Dr. Nichols. 鈥淲e will continue to meet with leaders across the country, drug companies, others advocates and in fact anyone who can help us ensure patients have access to the drugs they need.鈥�
If you or a loved one need personalized disease, treatment or support information, you can contact one of our Information Specialists:鈥�/support-resources/information-specialists.