FDA approves first treatment for severe frostbite

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first medication to treat severe frostbite in adults. 

Known as Aurlumyn (iloprost), the approved drug is a vasodilator, which opens blood vessels and prevents blood from clotting. Severe frostbite occurs when the skin and underlying tissue are frozen and blood flow is stopped, sometimes requiring amputation. 

"Having this new option provides physicians with a tool that will help prevent the lifechanging amputation of one's frostbitten fingers or toes," said Norman Stockbridge, director of the Division of Cardiology and Nephrology in the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. 

The FDA granted approval of the drug to Eico Sciences Inc. Aurlumyn can include common side effects like headache, flushing, heart palpitations and nausea. 

Read more: FDA

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