Patients are being recruited by the Division of Vascular Surgery at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine as part of an investigator-initiated study. SIU is one of two sites in the United States participating in the study evaluating the pharmacokinetics and safety of Remodulin R (treprostinil sodium) injections in patients who have ulcers on their upper or lower extremities and have end stage renal disease.

"This is a unique study in two ways. We are looking for patients on kidney dialysis who are normally excluded from studies like this and the study is not placebo-controlled. Everyone enrolled will receive the drug,” said Dr. Robert McLafferty, associate professor of vascular surgery at SIU, who is directing the study. “This drug is actually already on the market for patients with breathing problems. We’re hoping that the investigational use of this drug will prove that it is helpful to patients with end-stage renal disease who have ulcers on their hands or feet."

To be eligible for the study, patients must be over the age of 18 and have ulcers on the arms, legs, hands or feet and be on kidney dialysis. Each participant will be evaluated over 12 months. United Therapeutics Corporation will provide drugs, pumps, supplies, pharmacokinet assays and administrative support. Results will be shared with the participant’s personal physician.

If you are interested in participating in the study, contact Tiffany Whitaker weekdays at 217-545-2531 or via email at twhitaker@siumed.edu.

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