Risks associated with stem cell therapy

Posted in Drug & Medical Devices on May 15, 2018

Stem cell therapy is alluring treatment possibility for individuals dealing with a variety of health conditions ranging from orthopedic injuries to cancer. Many of these conditions are not easily treated, so stem cell therapy gives hope to people who believe that their treatment options are limited.

Stem cell therapy involves using the body’s own stem cells for healing. Some therapies, such as bone marrow transplants, involve the use of stem cells and are considered safe and effective and have been around for decades.

But other stem cell therapies are in early, experimental stages.

In fact, the FDA has warned consumers about stem cell therapy. According to the FDA, some of these therapies not only do not work – they can be dangerous. Some are illegally performed.

The FDA regulates stem cell therapies, but some stem cell therapy clinics have gone outside of the process. They directly target consumers with promises to fix a variety of ailments. And patients may be unaware.

Stem cell clinics have started popping up across the country, including several in Ohio. These clinics treat conditions ranging from Parkinson’s disease to multiple sclerosis to macular degeneration.

However, some of the therapies offered at some of these clinics are unapproved and potentially dangerous. The FDA promises to crack down on the highest risk procedures, which may involve injecting stem cells into the spinal cord, brain or eyes.

One woman who sought stem cell therapy to treat macular degeneration went completely blind from the procedure.

What can individuals do to ensure that the stem cell therapy they are seeking is safe?

The FDA recommends either ensuring that the procedure you are seeking is FDA approved, or ensuring that the procedure you are seeking is being studied under an FDA-approved clinical investigation plan.

Stem cell therapy is a developing area of science that could revolutionize the health care industry. However, many clinics are offering services that are unapproved, preying on vulnerable consumers looking for a miracle cure. Patients should be aware of the risks and potential complications associated with unproven therapies. It is advisable to fully research the procedure you are seeking and proceed with caution.