Studies Continue to Highlight Hemispherx's Ampligen® as Broadly Effective Adjuvant to Avian Influenza Treatments
Ampligen® Demonstrates Strong Therapeutic Synergy with Relenza®
PHILADELPHIA, PA, November 3, 2005 - Hemispherx Biopharma, Inc. (AMEX: HEB) announces that the NIH supported independent study at the Utah State University has recently completed research that shows Ampligen®, a Hemispherx experimental immunomodulator, demonstrates strong therapeutic synergy with Relenza® (Zanamivir).
In the study, researchers analyzed the effect of a combination of Ampligen® and Zanamivir on an influenza H5N1 infection in MDCK cells as determined by a cytopathic effect inhibition assay. Zanamivir had zero inhibitory activity when given alone (0.0032 microgram per milliliter) against the avian flu virus, however when co-administered with very low doses of Ampligen® (1 microgram per milliliter) it was shown to be 100% inhibitory.
With the threat of an avian influenza pandemic rising and health officials warning that the virus could develop resistance to current flu treatments, the pursuit of a cost-effective and capable adjuvant to existing antivirals and vaccines has become critical. This combination may permit the use of lower dosages and fewer injections of the antivirals and vaccines used to combat avian flu, thereby decreasing the cost of both immunization programs and treatment programs for the full-blown disease.
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