Do I qualify for phage therapy?
If you have a multidrug-resistant infection of any kind, you may qualify for phage therapy through the FDA’s compassionate use mechanism(Link is external). If you would like to learn more, please reach out to Benjamin Chan (b.chan@yale.edu).
Can phages infect my body?
Phages are incapable of infecting human cells and are not considered pathogenic.
How is phage therapy administered?
Administration will depend on the site of the infection. An infection in someone’s lungs, for example, will be treated with nebulized phages. In contrast, an infection in a wound may be treated with phages applied directly to the site or via IV infusion.
Can I continue to take my regular medications if I undergo phage therapy?
Yes. It is encouraged that you do not change your usual medications—including antibiotics—during phage therapy.
Can my infection mutate and become resistant to phage therapy?
Bacterial infections can mutate to become resistant to phages, and in most cases are expected to do so over time. These mutations can trigger beneficial tradeoffs such as reduced inflammation and re-sensitization to antibiotics. So, even in the face of these mutations we can see clinical benefits.