In 1985, Northwest Kidney Centers hosted the first clinical trials of the drug Epogen (EPO).
Dr. Joseph Eschbach led the clinical trials of EPO and was the principal investigator. Due in part to the cutting-edge research and successful patient trials, the Federal Food and Drug Administration approved the use of EPO in 1989.
EPO is used to treat anemia, which is common among people with kidney disease. EPO was shown to significantly improve patient well-being and quality of life by stimulating the production of red blood cells and making rehabilitation possible for more patients.
Today EPO remains a mainstay for treating kidney patients.