Closed Systems for Handling Cytotoxic Drugs Acceptance

Led by Teaching Hospitals, Closed Systems for Handling Cytotoxic Drugs Gaining Acceptance

Greystone Research Associates Finds Awareness Among Caregivers is Growing, Creating Opportunities for System Suppliers

(Amherst, NH) – Paralleling the regulatory and standards-based trend that has driven the safety syringe market, caregivers in growing numbers are joining the ongoing dialogue about the benefits and issues related to the use of closed transfer systems for the preparation and delivery of hazardous drugs. These systems are designed to minimize the escape of particulates and vapors that can be released during the processing of drugs for IV administration and/or injection. Regulatory and industry efforts to create standards and procedures designed to protect workers and patients from accidental and incidental exposure to cytotoxics are being driven by data that suggests a causal link between exposure and health issues

The emerging market for these systems is dominated by oncology therapeutics and the cytotoxic drugs that still comprise a major segment of the drug therapies for the treatment of most cancers. While the sophistication of these chemical ‘cocktails ‘ has grown in recent years, and in spite of the increasing promise of targeted antibody treatments based on tumor-specific biomarkers, this segment continues to rely heavily on antineoplastics, a class that includes alkylating agents and antimetabolites. These cytotoxic drugs used to combat tumor cells can also harm normal cells and their DNA, and these drugs are believed to represent a significant occupational exposure risk for hospital pharmacy and infusion center personnel.

Several companies are responding to the need to protect caregivers as well as patients from the toxic effects of these substances by commercializing devices for the closed transfer of these drugs. As the market evolves and user acceptance increases, so too will the impact of these products on cytotoxic drug therapy protocols and drug delivery.

Detailed analysis of systems for the closed transfer of hazardous drugs is included in a new and comprehensive report. The report – Closed Drug Transfer Systems: Therapeutic Markets. Strategies and Outlook - includes assessments of devices and therapeutic market segments, analysis of market factors, and profiles of market participants.

More information is available at
http://www.greystoneassociates.org

About Greystone

Greystone Associates is a medical technology consulting firm focused on the areas of medical market strategy, product commercialization, venture development, and market research. We assist medical and healthcare market participants in achieving their business objectives through the creation of detailed development strategies, product commercialization programs, and comprehensive market and technology research and analysis. Our market research publications are designed, researched and written to provide timely and insightful information and data on focused market segments, with the aim of providing market participants with the essential knowledge to refine and execute their marketing plans and financial targets.

www.greystoneassociates.org

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