Compassionate Use of Investigational Drugs: A Strategy to Access Unapproved Therapies for Pediatric Oncology Patients Presented by BTG Speciality Pharmaceuticals

This episode is sponsored by BTG Speciality Pharmaceuticals. BTG provides rescue medicines typically used in emergency rooms and intensive care units to treat patients for whom there are limited treatment options. They are dedicated to delivering quality medicines that make a real difference to patients and their families through the development, manufacture, and commercialization of pharmaceutical products. Their current portfolio of antidotes counteracts certain snake venoms and the toxicity associated with some heart and cancer medications. This presentation will explain the process and the challenges of obtaining access to experimental drugs for cancer patients. Elena is Programs Director at Kids v Cancer, a nonprofit pediatric cancer advocacy organization. Elena directs the Compassionate Use Navigator program, providing guidance and personal assistance to physicians and families in applying for experimental drugs. Previously Elena worked as a science and business journalist, and as a program manager. Elena holds a Master of Public Health degree in maternal and child health and an M.A. degree in journalism.