Non-FDA approved drugs

My viral count has just taken off and I cannot get into any studies because I was a non-responder to a non-pegylated interferon/ribaviron study 5 years ago.  I'm sliding into stage 3 and getting desperate at this point.  Is there any way to get approval for telaprevir in a life/death situation?  I know for cancer you can sometimes take experimental drugs that aren't approved.  Does anyone know if this is possible?  Thanks!

[FlGuy]

One of our members, "Magnum", attempted that route.  Maybe he'll come along and post a reply with his expereince or you can search out some threads that Magnum started on the subject.

[1wilson1]

Thanks, I'lll check the threads.

[spectda]

I think they need denied early compassionate use.
- Dave

[nygirl7]

Yes they did if anybody on earth was getting it it would have to be Magnum he has been SO diligent in his efforts.

Put his name in the search engine (I dont know if you have to be on the 'other' side which is the medical side or not for them to come up) and certainly you will see just how hard he is trying for this.  It is quite impressive.

[yodennis]

If you are "sliding into stage 3" it is not a "life and death" situation. I am at stage 4, a fairly new father, and still performing on stage. dennis

[nygirl7]

I was thinking Infergen isn't pegylated inteferon because you have to take it every day.  Have you thought of this as an option?

[eureka254]

"Sliding into stage 3" can be understandably concerning, but don't panic -- that stage would not put you anywhere near a life/death situation.  Keep in mind that viral load jumps around quite a bit, and a skyrocketing viral load does not necessarily mean correlative damage.

If you have a liver-healthy lifestyle, it's very likely you will have time to wait for the FDA approval (lots of buzz that it may be as soon as next year).  Get yourself in the best shape possible to optimize your chances of success, take care of the liver, and don't give in to unfounded desperation.  Hang in there. ~eureka

PS: Cancer patients do get experimental drugs, but those are largely done via trials as well.

[orphanedhawk]

Viral load does not equal damage to your liver.
My viral load was very low but my liver was a mess.I've known people with high viral loads and no problems.
My advice is to keep doing whatever you can to protect your liver.( drink lots of coffee, eat dark chocolate, eat healthy foods,avoid noxious fumes, etc)

The PI's are due to be available in 2011.
Good luck,
OH