Cow-Hemoglobin drug offers hope for anemia patients who refuse blood

NCT ID NCT02684474

NO_LONGER_AVAILABLE Disease control Sponsor: Johns Hopkins University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anemia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ANEMIA

Contacts and locations

Locations

The Johns Hopkins Hospital

Baltimore, Maryland, 21287, United States

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