A series of Pfizer clinical trials conducted in Circle City’s Dermatology Department have benefited several patients who otherwise would have little choice but to suffer through chronic pruritus (itching) and infection caused by allergic skin disease (atopic dermatitis). Pictured here is “Cal”, a patient and participant in this detailed 3-part trial that concluded recently. Cal is one of the select few who have been approved by Pfizer and the FDA to continue use of this experimental drug under ‘compassionate care’ guidelines. Many patients were involved in these trials and responded positively. Cal has been given special permission to stay on the drug while it continues through the FDA approval process because he failed to show adequate response to other conventional forms of treatment. If Cal was not allowed to stay on this experimental medication, he would most likely revert back to his suffering with little hope of success. Cal’s owners, Christy and Michael, are relieved that he has been approved for compassionate use of the test article. Christy stated Cal was, “…running out of options. Since he has been on this medication his hair has returned, he is back to his old self, and leading a normal life again.” Sixteen patients who participated in this trial have preliminary approval from the FDA to continue under a compassionate care agreement. Three are currently enrolled and the rest are in the final stages of this rigorous application process.
Circle City’s practice owner and head of the Dermatology Department, Terry Grieshaber, DVM, Diplomate, ACVD, has been involved with this clinical trial since the beginning. Pfizer’s site monitoring and compliance leaders have recognized Dr. Grieshaber and his support staff for their attention to detail, compliance with study guidelines, and professional standards and have utilized Circle City as a training site for their team members. Because of this success, Pfizer has asked them to participate in additional trials evaluating new alternative modalities for the treatment of Atopic Dermatitis.
A 4th ‘discovery’ trial is now in the process of closing and a completely new trial is tentatively scheduled to begin in June. The details of this 5th trial remain sketchy; however Dr. Grieshaber has been advised that training for his team should occur in the middle of May. Details will be provided as they become available. As with previous trials, clients will be compensated for their participation. Interested parties should call Circle City’s office and ask to speak with Shawna Zeilstra.
