Mesothelioma Cure
Currently, there is no cure for mesothelioma. Because mesothelioma is caused by asbestos exposure, the disease can be prevented by avoiding exposure. Many people were unknowingly exposed to this dangerous substance by manufacturers of asbestos-containing products, and were therefore wronged. When this has happened, victims may be eligible to receive compensation from the responsible parties, usually the manufacturers of asbestos-containing products.
Although there is no known cure for mesothelioma, there are options for treatment. There are typically three types of treatments: surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Alternative treatments may be available through clinical trials for eligible patients. Clinical trials are a way for patients to get access to medications under development, which are known as “investigational” medications or drugs. Patients can ask their doctors about enrolling in a clinical trial or a doctor might suggest a clinical trial to a patient.
There is no cure for mesothelioma but scientists are constantly exploring new ways to treat this disease.
Investigational Medications for Mesothelioma Treatment
An investigational medication or drug is a newly developed treatment that is under study but does not have the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) approval for marketing and sales. Sometimes, an investigational medication may be available outside of a clinical trial setting through a “special exception” or “compassionate exemption” rule. Patients who don’t qualify for a clinical trial may be granted this exception if there is a reasonable expectation that the medication will prolong life or significantly improve their quality of life. In such cases, the doctor running the clinical trial will submit a request to the sponsor of the trial, either a pharmaceutical company or the National Cancer Institute, and the sponsor will decide on a case-by-case basis whether to grant an exception.
Responsibilities of Doctors and Patients
Not all investigational drugs are available through the special exception rule. Patients interested in being treated with investigational medications should talk to their doctor about available options. Doctors can make requests for special exceptions by contacting the study sponsor. Doctors will be required to follow strict guidelines, including getting the approval of an Institutional Review Board as well as getting the informed consent from the patient. Informed consent is given by a patient signing a document that describes the potential risks and benefits of the medication, as well as the rights and responsibilities of the patient.
Mesothelioma Legal Help
If you were diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s important that you understand your legal rights. By filling out the form or calling the phone number on this page, you can request a free mesothelioma information packet that includes details about current clinical trials and the best treatment centers, and explains your legal rights. Start getting answers today.
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