According to news sources, the Food and Drug Administration has recently ruled that the popular drug Avastin should not be used to treat advanced breast cancer as the danger of potential side effects outweigh the benefits the drug offers.
The drug will remain in the market nonetheless, as it is used to treat colon cancer as well as other malignancies. Aside from remaining in Medicare coverage policies, doctors will reportedly also still be able to prescribe the drug to their patients. Studies have found that the drug does not help patients live longer and that the side effects of the drug outweigh its benefits.
There have been a some insurers that have already reportedly quit the drug, anticipating the FDA ruling for some time.
The drug was approved by the FDA back in 2008 as it offered hope that it could delay the spread of breast cancer for a few months.
As a Los Angeles personal injury attorney, I appreciate all efforts being made to ensure increased healthcare safety standards for patients. I hope this information can help raise awareness about this practice and keep consumers safe. If you or a loved one has been injured through the use or consumption of a defective product, speak with a product liability lawyer Los Angeles to learn about the legal options available to you.
