FLOCOR™: a new anti-adhesive, rheologic agent

FLOCOR (purified poloxamer 188) is a surfactant molecule that represents a new class of pharmacological agent. FLOCOR is different in that its activity does not depend on high affinity receptor binding but rather on altering the way cells and molecules interact with water. Extensive preclinical studies in models of vascular occlusive disorders, including circulatory shock, acute stroke, and myocardial infarction (MI), suggest that iv. administration of poloxamer 188 improves microvascular blood flow in ischaemic tissues by inhibiting adhesive interactions, lowering blood viscosity and reducing friction along the vessel wall. In clinical studies, poloxamer 188 demonstrated statistically significant benefits in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and acute vaso-occlusive crisis of sickle cell disease. However, these studies were conducted with commercial grades of poloxamer 188 that contained nephrotoxic impurities, and elevated creatinine was observed in a small percentage of patients. A new highly purified version of poloxamer 188 free from impurities has been developed. Highly purified poloxamer 188 (trade name FLOCOR) is better tolerated in models of renal failure and is anticipated to have a significantly improved therapeutic index compared to commercial grade poloxamer 188. Clinical studies are now in progress in order to confirm the therapeutic benefits of FLOCOR (purified poloxamer 188).