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While still in the early stages of testing, researchers are hopeful that a new drug will aid in the fight against mesothelioma cancer. A Japanese drug company has created a drug that, when used alongside chemotherapy, is more effective against the mesothelioma cancer cells than any other previous treatment.
To date, there is still no cure for mesothelioma. Surgery and chemotherapy are often ineffective because these cancer cells spread quickly throughout the body. Mesothelioma can take decades to manifest after initial exposure, and doctors can misdiagnose its symptoms for a less serious condition. Unfortunately, drug companies are not motivated to pursue expensive testing and research due to the dire outlook for mesothelioma patients.
However, this new drug is part of the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) pilot testing program, and researchers have hope. The FDA is allowing the Japanese drugmaker to use smaller testing samples to gain approval. In addition, the drug manufacturer will enjoy seven years of exclusive rights against generic manufacturers.
Federal officials think that this initial breakthrough might lead to more research for a mesothelioma cure. At the very least, it is good news for patients living with lung cancer.
Do you know someone with mesothelioma symptoms? Contact us today to explore your options.
Koonz McKenney Johnson & DePaolis LLP
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