The FDA has revoked their approval of the medication Avastin for the treatment of breast cancer. According to the FDA, there’s no proof that the drug extends the lives of breast cancer victims and there could be major side effects. The FDA’s ruling on Friday came as no surprise, but it was still a disappointment to women and breast cancer advocates. Read more after the jump.
FDA Commissioner Dr. Margaret Hamburg called the decision difficult but said patients must have confidence that drugs sold for their condition are effective.
Avastin won’t stop selling, as it’s also used to treat colon cancer and certain other tumors, but the FDA ruling is expected to influence insurance coverage. Medicare says it will continue to cover Avastin while it evaluates whether a change is needed.
