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Colon Cancer Drug Flunks Important Test

Avastin's effects on early-stage disease don't meet expectations

By Matt Cantor, Newser Staff

Posted Apr 22, 2009 8:07 AM CDT

(Newser) – Clinical trials to determine the drug Avastin’s effects on early-stage colon cancer were a big disappointment for drug firm Genentech, the New York Times reports. The drug, which is typically used in late-stage cancer, didn’t significantly cut the recurrence rate among 2,700 subjects in the early stages, Genentech said. A successful study could have meant billions more yearly for the firm.

Current chemotherapy already keeps some 70% of patients cancer-free for 3 years after surgery; beating that was a tall order, the Times notes. When Roche recently acquired Genentech, the American company trumpeted the possible new use of Avastin. Now it appears the Swiss firm may have overpaid. But the companies say they haven’t given up on early-stage use.

The Genentech Inc. headquarters are seen in South San Francisco, Calif., in this July 10, 2006 file photo. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)

Exterior view of Genentech Inc. headquarters in South San Francisco, Calif., Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2007. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)

n this Feb. 26, 2003 file photo, the headquarters of pharmaceutical company Roche are seen in Basel, Switzerland. (AP Photo/Keystone, Dominik Pluess)

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Colon Cancer Drug Flunks Important Test

Avastin's effects on early-stage disease don't meet expectations

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OTHER STORIES ON OUR RADAR

study • drug companies • cancer research • cancer treatment • Genentech • Roche • Avastin • clinical trials

MOST POPULAR STORIES

[ By Views ]

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More Newser Stories

Dangerous Counterfeit Cancer Drug Found in US

Fake Avastin missing active ingredient

FDA Panel: Don't Use Avastin for Breast Cancer

It recommends that agency revoke approval of popular drug

Popular Cancer Drug Is Iffy and Expensive

Widely prescribed Avastin doesn't prolong life, studies say

Avastin Results Disappoint on Ovarian Cancer

Genentech won't be seeking US approval anytime soon

FDA Drops Approval of Avastin for Breast Cancer

Drug lacks benefits, but side effects are 'life-threatening': commissioner

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