- In August 2023, Merck received FDA approval for WELIREG (belzutifan), a hypoxia-inducible factor-2 alpha (HIF-2α) inhibitor, for the treatment of certain tumors associated with Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease. This approval highlights the therapeutic potential of targeting hypoxia-related pathways in cancer treatment, offering a new option for patients with this rare genetic condition
- In May 2023, Amgen announced positive Phase 3 results for tezepelumab (Tezspire), co-developed with AstraZeneca, showing significant reductions in asthma exacerbations across a broad patient population, including those with severe, uncontrolled asthma often associated with airway inflammation and hypoxia. While not directly a hypoxia-targeting drug, its effectiveness in severe asthma has implications for managing conditions that can lead to chronic hypoxia
- In February 2023, ResMed continued to expand its digital health offerings, with increased adoption of its AirView platform, which allows healthcare providers to remotely monitor and manage patients with sleep apnea and other respiratory conditions. This remote monitoring capability is crucial for managing chronic hypoxia conditions, ensuring patients receive optimal therapy and allowing for timely interventions
- In January 2023, Philips announced the expansion of its Philips Respironics DreamStation 2 sleep therapy platform with new features designed to enhance user comfort and adherence. Given that sleep apnea is a major cause of intermittent hypoxia, advancements in CPAP technology directly impact the management of hypoxia and improving patient outcomes in this significant disease segment
