Dr Sanjeev Bagai on New Thalassemia Drug: 'Would Definitely Be a Game Changer'

A major global medical breakthrough for thalassemia patients as the US drug regulator FDA approves Mitapivat, the first oral medicine for the genetic blood disorder. This new drug offers hope for a transfusion-free life by treating the underlying problem in red blood cells. Prof. Dr. Sanjeev Bagai, Chairman of Nephron Clinic, explains the significance, stating any medication that corrects the issue at the root cause 'would definitely be a game changer'. The drug could eliminate the need for frequent, costly blood transfusions, which carry risks of iron overload and viral infections. While the approval is a significant leap, the drug is yet to reach India, with Dr. Bagai suggesting it could take six to nine months following local trials by the ICMR.