In a much welcome medical development, the Food and Drug Administration has given the nod to use of Istodax, a drug from the house of Gloucester Pharmaceuticals, for treatment of Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL).

As confirmed by the drug manufacturer in an official statement, the drug has been approved for use in people who have tried at least one systemic therapy before. A cancer of the germs fighting lymphatic system, CTCL involves growth of cancerous cells of the skin that can cause patches which are disfigured and itch badly.

The cancer might involve and attack other organs like the lymph nodes, blood and viscera. Post two clinical study which involved as many as 167 patients, the drug gained approval. It is expected to hit the markets in January.

Although the drug is being eagerly looked forward to, the company has warned that while patients are on Istodax, it is very important to carefully monitor their blood parameters. In addition, the drug can harm a fetus and should not be taken by pregnant women. Also, the company is of the view that Istodax might interfere with some estrogen laden contraceptives.