Cow-Hemoglobin drug offers hope for anemia patients who refuse blood
NCT ID NCT02684474
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This expanded access program tested HBOC-201 (Hemopure), a liquid oxygen carrier made from cow hemoglobin, in adults with life-threatening anemia who cannot receive blood transfusions. The goal was to improve oxygen delivery to tissues. Participants had very low hemoglobin levels and signs of organ distress. The treatment was given intravenously without needing blood type matching.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
HBOC-201 (Hemopure), a lab-made oxygen carrier from cow hemoglobin
What this could lead to
If it works, this could provide a temporary oxygen-boosting option for severely anemic patients who cannot get blood transfusions, potentially saving lives in emergencies.
What could go wrong
This is an expanded access program, not a full trial, so data is limited. HBOC-201 may carry risks like high blood pressure or kidney issues, and it is not a substitute for blood in all cases.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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The Johns Hopkins Hospital
Baltimore, Maryland, 21287, United States