While a study had showed hopes of the drug Avastin helping women with breast cancer, an FDA advisory board has rejected its use for that purpose.
Members of the panel cited significant side effects including high blood pressure in many patients and cases of hemorrhage and intestinal perforations.
More importantly, the panel said the company behind the drug, Genentech, has not proven Avastin’s ability to help breast cancer patients live longer or improve their quality of life.
Wednesday’s decision came after dozens of patients who benefited from the treatment voiced their support for the drug and Genentech contended the side effects were no worse than other breast cancer drugs. However, the panel was unswayed and unanimous in their decision to advise against it’s use.
While it remains a suitable treatment for brain, lung, colon and kidney cancer, FDA Commissioner Margaret Hamburg will make the final decision on whether it should be used to treat breast cancer.
