CHELATION THERAPY IN BETA-THALASSEMIA MAJOR - ONE-YEAR DOUBLE-BLIND STUDY OF 2,3-DIHYDROXYBENZOIC ACID

  • 1 January 1979
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 7  (2) , 74-80
Abstract
A year-long double-blind study of 2,3-dihydroxybenzoic acid (2,3-DHB) given orally at a dose of 25 mg/kg 4 times per day was undertaken in 15 patients with .beta.-thalassemia major. 2,3-DHB and placebo (mannitol) were tolerated to an equal degree and there were no signs of drug toxicity at the end of 1 yr. Efficacy in terms of retardation of Fe accumulation could be documented using serial liver biopsies, serum ferritin determinations or clinical laboratory assessment. Serum Fe values increased, as did the Fe binding capacity, in the group receiving 2,3-DHB. The increase in Fe binding capacity was due to drug interference with the method of determination. Because of the greater efficacy of slow infusions of desferrioxamine in chelating Fe when administered slowly, the clinic has shifted its emphasis toward further evaluation of that compound. Nevertheless, in view of the minimal toxicity of 2,3-DHB, further work appears warranted to define its role in the treatment of Fe-overload.