Who We Are
Our Mission
Dysimmune Diseases Foundation (DDF) embodies the long-held dream of Dr. Sohail Masood, PharmD to develop and implement new, effective treatments for dysimmune diseases (commonly known as autoimmune diseases). Since this is a rather large field, DDF will focus on specific aspects of certain diseases.
The medications used in treating dysimmune diseases can be costly. DDF will work with prescribing physicians to help improve the delivery of these drugs to patients at discounted prices by meeting some of the copay/deductible needs of patients who are covered through commercial insurance plans. DDF may also work closely with home infusion companies and manufacturers to offset costs of drugs, if the patient is unable to pay for the drug.
Regarding immediate help for patients, DDF will expand its current activity of facilitating the administrative and financial aspects of bringing patients medications currently FDA approved and proven effective – often they provide cumulatively dramatic benefit. But some of the best drugs can be costly.
One drug cited as highly effective in treating dysimmune diseases is Intravenous Immune Globulin (IVIG), which is used to treat dysimmune neuromuscular diseases, such as Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP), Guillian- Barre Syndrome, Myasthenia Gravis, Multifocal Motor Neuropathy, Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis and Stiff Person Syndrome. IVIG is also effective for Dermatomyositis and Polymyositis and can be used in dermatological diseases such as Pemphigus and Pemphygoid. IVIG is also indicated for Primary Immune Deficiency. IVIG has been tried in Down Syndrome and Alzheimer Disease, without definite benefit; further studies are needed.
As research funds become available, DDF will support medical research to provide a better understanding of dysimmune diseases, support the development of less expensive versions of current drugs, and support the creation of totally new drugs, for the benefit of all relevant patients.
Our Core Values
While working towards our goals, it is important to us to keep sight of the primary focus of our foundation;
- Commitment
- Support
- Research
Our Founder
