Rock legend Ozzy Osbourne is exploring stem cell therapy, though experts warn it may not suit everyone. In a recent "Ozzy Speaks" episode on SiriusXM, Osbourne shared insights from his follow-up stem cell appointment. He had previously undergone treatment three months ago.
Osbourne expressed mixed feelings about the treatment's effectiveness, saying, "The thing is, you have it, and you go, ‘I don't feel that great,’ but I don't know what it would be like if I didn't have it." Over recent years, he's faced severe health challenges, including Parkinson’s disease, which have affected his mobility.
His initial foray into stem cell treatment in 2020 was driven by a desire to reengage with life, according to his daughter Kelly. She reported significant progress after just one treatment, calling the improvements "mind-blowing."
Stem cells, found throughout the body, can repair tissues or transform into various cell types like brain or muscle cells. Dr. Mikkael Sekeres of the University of Miami explained that these cells are crucial in treating certain blood and bone marrow cancers by replacing bone marrow wiped out by chemotherapy.
Stem cell therapies, however, are mostly experimental and approved by the FDA only for specific cancers. In 2023, the FDA approved a new cell therapy to reduce infection risks post-transplant. Sekeres highlighted that other uses of stem cell therapy remain largely unproven.
Despite advancements, stem cell therapy isn't a comprehensive cure for Parkinson’s disease, explained Dr. Michael S. Okun. He emphasized the complexity of Parkinson’s, which goes beyond dopamine deficiencies, advocating for a multidisciplinary approach.
For those considering stem cell therapy for Parkinson's, Okun advised thorough vetting of any proposed treatments, including verifying research authorization through institutional review board approvals. He warned against paying for participation in research trials, highlighting the dangers of "stem cell tourism" and potential severe side effects.
Stem cell transplants can introduce cells from another's bone marrow or a baby's umbilical cord. This can lead to immune reactions or other serious health issues like infertility, cancer, or organ damage.
Finally, Sekeres cautioned against viewing stem cell therapy as a miracle cure. He cited a study revealing bacterial outbreaks linked to unapproved stem cell products. For accurate information, the FDA encourages inquiries to their dedicated email.