Researchers discovered a drug called ponsegromab that effectively treats cancer patients suffering from cachexia, a condition involving weight loss and muscle wasting. The drug blocks a hormone called GDF-15, which regulates appetite and body weight. Results from a randomized phase 2 clinical trial with 187 participants showed improvement in many cachexia symptoms with minimal side effects. The study was led by Richard Dunne, MD, an oncologist at Wilmot Cancer Institute, and supported by Pfizer. Further research is ongoing to understand the role of GDF-15 in various cancers. This study marks an important advancement in treating cachexia and improving quality of life for cancer patients.
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Drug breakthrough provides new hope for cancer patients with cachexia
