Sweetening the bitter pill: PREVALL brings hope to Pediatric Cancer Patients

In a remarkable stride forward in the battle against cancer, Tata Memorial Hospital and the Advanced Center for Training Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC) have introduced a groundbreaking chemotherapy drug in syrup form, named ‘PREVALL.’ This revolutionary development, in collaboration with IDRS Labs in Bangalore, marks a significant shift in cancer treatment, particularly for pediatric patients.

A Syrup for Cancer: The Birth of PREVALL

 ‘PREVALL’ utilizes 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP), a vital component in combating Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), the most prevalent form of blood cancer affecting children. The formulation of ‘PREVALL’ addresses critical challenges associated with conventional tablet forms, providing a more patient-friendly alternative. Approximately 10,000 children between 1-10 years diagnosed with ALL are expected to benefit annually from this innovative syrup.

The Challenges Overcome

Liquid formulations of 6-MP have long been available in Europe and the United States, but access has been limited in developing countries like India. ‘PREVALL’ now offers a child-friendly solution, available in the form of a powder for oral suspension, making it more adaptable for pediatric patients.

The oral suspension not only ensures dosage precision but also tackles issues related to flexibility and tolerability. Unlike conventional tablets, ‘PREVALL’ allows for more accurate dosing tailored to a patient’s body weight or surface area. The accompanying syringe and Press In Bottle Adapter (PIBA) enhance precise administration while eliminating the risk of spillage and caregiver exposure to cytotoxic compounds.

A Game Changer for Pediatric Cancer Treatment

Dr. Girish Chinnaswamy, Head of the Department of Pediatric Oncology at Tata Memorial Hospital, emphasizes that ‘PREVALL’ is a game-changer. The syrup’s introduction eliminates less-than-ideal practices, such as tablet crushing or alternate-day dosing, previously employed to meet specific dosing needs in children.

Conventional tablets, often available in 50mg formulations, proved challenging for children who require dosages in the range of 22ml or 37ml. ‘PREVALL’ offers a practical solution, ensuring effective syrup absorption and minimizing the risk of underdosing or overdosing during the 1.5-2 years of necessary treatment.

Regulatory Approval and Beyond

‘PREVALL’ has received approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), affirming its safety and efficacy in cancer treatment. The formulation was introduced at Tata Hospital in early December and is poised to be available in major hospital pharmacies across the country soon.

This groundbreaking achievement signifies a major breakthrough in cancer care, particularly in pediatric oncology. Dr. S. D. Banavali, Director-Academics at Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, and a senior pediatric hemato-oncologist, underscores the significance of ‘PREVALL’ in ensuring dose optimization, improving adherence, and maximizing drug efficacy.

 The Journey of Chemotherapy: Past and Present

Reflecting on the history of cancer treatment, chemotherapy has played a pivotal role since its inception in the 1940s. Initially administered using nitrogen mustard and folic acid antagonists, chemotherapy has evolved over the years. The conventional method involves intravenous injections or pills, often causing pain and discomfort.

‘PREVALL,’ as an oral suspension, presents a welcome shift, potentially alleviating the challenges associated with intravenous chemotherapy. The syrup’s introduction suggests a more accessible and patient-friendly option for treatment, bringing relief to patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Collaborative Success: Tata Memorial Hospital, ACTREC, and IDRS Labs

The development of ‘PREVALL’ stands as a testament to successful collaboration between Tata Memorial Hospital, ACTREC, and IDRS Labs. This joint effort showcases the power of interdisciplinary cooperation in advancing medical science and addressing unmet needs in cancer treatment.

 The Future of Cancer Treatment: Syrup Formulations

With ‘PREVALL’ leading the way, Tata hospitals are poised to continue collaborating with companies to develop more syrup formulations for pediatric cancer patients. This commitment to innovation underscores a broader shift toward more patient-friendly and effective cancer treatments.

In conclusion, the introduction of ‘PREVALL’ represents a momentous achievement in cancer care, offering hope and relief to patients undergoing chemotherapy. This syrup not only provides a practical solution for pediatric patients but also signifies a paradigm shift in cancer treatment methods. As ‘PREVALL’ becomes available across the country, it holds the promise of transforming the landscape of cancer treatment in India and potentially beyond, marking a new era of hope and healing.