'Miracle' Skin Cream to Treat Vitiligo Sparks Controversy in the UK
A new skin cream treatment can be available at the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK. The cream has been called a 'Miracle' cream claiming to treat the autoimmune disease of Vitiligo.
However, the miracle hasn't been going well with people as it has sparked controversy among the healthcare community. The cream has faced criticism from both the medical aspect of it concerning the side effects and the ethical side of it.
The drug constituent is known as Ruxolitinib and is sold under the brand name Opzelura. Vitiligo is a disease that causes loss of skin color in patches. It occurs when pigment-producing cells die or stop functioning.
Ruxolitinib claims that it can restore pigment to the skin, it can return the skin's natural color, and get rid of whitened patches.
Side Effects of Ruxolitinib -
Negatively affects the immune system.
This leaves the individual prone to infections like coughs and colds.
Acne
Redness
Low blood cell counts.
Increase in cholesterol.
Cancer
Blood clots
Opzulera was approved in the USA last year, and a single tube costs $2000 (£1600).
(Input from various media sources)