Risk minimization for a dangerous drug
If you take a drug that suppresses the immune system, what do you suppose will happen?
Among many other problems, you might develop a potentially fatal brain infection called PML. That was the tragic end for three patients who used the immune-system- suppressing drug called Raptiva that treats psoriasis with weekly injections.
In a recent e-Alert (“Code Red” 3/5/09), I told you about this Raptiva crisis that prompted a new warning on the drug’s prescribing information sheet: “RAPTIVA increases the risk for PML, a rapidly progressive viral infection of the central nervous system that has no known treatment and that leads to death or severe disability. The risk of PML may markedly increase with longer duration of RAPTIVA exposure. The time dependent threshold when the risk for PML increases is unknown.”
Other than that…have a nice day!
In the wake of this new PML danger, we’ve now heard from a spokesperson for Genentech (the company that makes Raptiva) who gave this statement to WebMD Health News: “We are evaluating all possible approaches to address the risk of PML with Raptiva use, including a risk minimization plan.”
A risk minimization plan – good idea! Maybe I can help with that. All Genentech needs to do is add a carefully worded advisory note to the drug’s prescribing instructions. Here are three suggestions…
- Before injecting yourself with Raptiva, roll down the window of a moving car and throw the vial out on the highway. Repeat weekly.
- Ask a friend to hide Raptiva in another time zone.
- Line up your monthly Raptiva vials on a workbench and smash them with a hammer.
Risk minimized! You’re welcome.
You can read more about Raptiva dangers and non-drug alternative treatments for psoriasis in the e-Alert “Tunnel Ahead” (12/8/08).
Source:
“Psoriasis Drug Raptiva Tied to Brain Infection” Miranda Hitti, WebMD Health News, 2/19/09, webmd.com
