Sickle cell disease is a severe monogenic genetic disorder caused by an autosomal recessive mutation of the β-globin gene, leading to production of abnormal hemoglobin (HbS). It primarily affects individuals from Africa or the French overseas territories. In France, approximately 26,000 patients are affected. Improved care has significantly increased life expectancy. Vaso-occlusive crises (VOC) are the main clinical complication. They result from polymerization of HbS, deforming red blood cells and causing capillary occlusion, tissue hypoxia, intense bone pain, and frequent hospitalizations. In France in 2015, 25,150 hospitalizations were recorded, 61% of which were for VOC. Iloprost is a prostacyclin (PGI2) analogue with vasodilatory, anti-platelet, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It is used to treat severe limb ischemia and Raynaud's phenomenon, administered by IV infusion for 5 to 28 days. It is well tolerated and has shown efficacy for bone pain related to bone marrow edema. Its rapid and sustained action makes it an interesting candidate for VOC, which are comparable to ischemic-origin pain. To date, only one reported case of iloprost use for a VOC exists, showing rapid and lasting improvement. This randomized, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial aims to evaluate the efficacy of iloprost in patients hospitalized for VOC, with the objective of reducing pain and opioid consumption. This comprehensive approach could significantly improve VOC management.
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Opioid consumption
Timeframe: 28 days following randomization