The jellyfish responsible for IS are found in Australia’s warm, tropical waters, from Exmouth in Western Australia, to Moreton Bay in south-east Queensland.
Every year, there are up to 60 cases of IS, with victims suffering throbbing pain, headache, sweating, raised blood pressure and breathing difficulties. There has been two confirmed deaths attributed to this jellyfish in Australia.
“As an Australian pharmaceutical manufacturer, Phebra is pleased to be supplying the Magnesium Sulphate infusions as well as the placebo component to be used in this trial,” said Phebra CEO, Dr Mal Eutick.
“The group has planned a detailed and controlled, multi-centre trial, which will provide clinicians with the data needed to understand the efficacy of Magnesium Sulphate as an antidote for IS in areas where jellyfish stings are most prevalent in the summer months.
“Phebra continues to support the need for antidotes unique for Australian stings and bites and I am proud that this collaboration demonstrates the value of having supportive Australian based manufacturers who have a desire to support the needs of both our local resident community and overseas visitors.”
Dr Eutick, confirmed Phebra will be working in conjunction with Drs Jeremy Furyk and Clinton Gibbs and other collaborators from around north Queensland to support the trial in emergency departments at hospitals in Cairns, Townsville, Proserpine and Mackay. The trial is scheduled to commence next year and may be extended to health settings in Darwin and Broome.
Phebra is an Australian based specialty pharmaceutical company which develops, manufactures and markets critical medicines in Australia, New Zealand, Asia, Canada and parts of Europe.
