New drug to treat one of the deadliest cancers is 'the real deal,' oncologist says
KSL.com • • health
Key Points:
- Dr. Mark Lewis called the new pancreatic cancer drug daraxonrasib a "game changer," noting it doubled survival time for stage 4 patients from 6.7 to 13.2 months compared to chemotherapy.
- Daraxonrasib targets the KRAS mutation directly, marking the first effective treatment against this mutation and signaling a new era of precision cancer therapies.
- Although not a cure, the oral medication offers a potentially better-tolerated alternative to intravenous chemotherapy, with side effects including rash, diarrhea, and mouth sores.
- The drug is currently available through an Extended Access Program at Intermountain Health and affiliated centers, with FDA approval expected soon after an application submitted in July.
- Pancreatic cancer remains highly deadly due to late detection and aggressive spread; this breakthrough provides new hope for patients, especially those in smaller communities with limited treatment options.
