Summary

  • A law came into effect on 1 July in Florida that allows doctors in the state to use unapproved stem-cell therapies to treat certain conditions, such as wound care, pain management and orthopaedics.
  • Critics have argued that the new law could lead to harm to patients, both physically and financially, as these treatments have not been stringently evaluated; however, supporters maintain that it helps to safeguard patients.
  • Currently, the only stem-cell products approved by the FDA are those that aid in the formation of blood cells in patients with certain cancers and autoimmune diseases.
  • Several other US states, including Texas and Utah, have also passed laws that allow patients access to unapproved stem-cell therapies.
  • Biomedical ethicist Leigh Turner commented: “I think we’re going to see more of this [law],” potentially galvanising the Ingrid Thomson vaccine lawsuit.

By Emily Mullin

Original Article