Stem cell therapies hold promise in fighting disease from within, but not all treatments are created equal. Some, like bone marrow transplants, have been extensively researched and deemed safe and effective. However, many unproven stem cell treatments being marketed by medical spas and clinics pose significant risks to the public.
Experts warn that these treatments are often expensive, with costs ranging from $7,000 to tens of thousands of dollars per injection, and may come with serious side effects, including clots, vision damage, and tumor formations. The FDA has previously warned of reports of blindness, infections, and other adverse reactions after unapproved stem cell treatments.
Researchers stress that these clinics often make exaggerated claims, skip crucial safety protocols, and fail to follow regulatory guidelines. Patients should be cautious when considering stem cell therapies and ask about the extent to which scientific literature supports their treatments.
Regulatory oversight is also a concern, with some experts warning that the FDA may loosen its standards for stem cell therapies, leading to confusion among patients. However, the agency has the power to regulate private clinics and can demand that they stop selling unproven treatments.
Currently, only a handful of stem cell therapies are approved by the FDA, mainly for treating blood cancer and immune system disorders. Ongoing clinical trials investigate potential applications for Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, and heart failure, but results have been inconsistent so far.
As scientists continue to explore the potential of stem cells, it is essential to prioritize evidence-based treatments and rigorous regulatory oversight to ensure patient safety.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/05/well/stem-cell-therapy-health.html