US approves new drug for advanced pancreatic cancer

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a drug developed by Revolution Medicines for the treatment of pancreatic cancer, after a large-scale trial showed it doubled survival rates for patients with advanced disease, offering new hope for those affected by this deadly cancer.

The drug, to be marketed as Rasonac and taken as a once-daily pill, has been approved for patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer who have previously received treatment or are unable to undergo combination chemotherapy. The company designed the medication to inhibit several forms of RAS proteins, which drive tumor growth in many pancreatic cancer cases.

According to the company, the drug is now available in the United States at a price of $39,800 for a 30-day supply. Revolution Medicines also announced it will provide assistance programs.

The company saw a surge in demand after announcing trial results in April. The FDA quickly granted early access to the drug under its compassionate use program, which allows patients with serious or life-threatening conditions to try experimental treatments outside of clinical trials before official approval.

Some patients who received early access to the drug have already experienced relief from the burdens of chemotherapy.

Barbara Andes, 88, from Fullerton, California, who began taking the drug in July after a year of chemotherapy, said it allowed her to resume her normal activities and that she experienced much less nausea and fatigue.

"This will open the door commercially for so many people who are suffering... It’s a godsend," she added.