Avastin Lawyer in New York City

F.D.A. Revokes Approval for Avastin use for treatment of Breast Cancer

On November 18, 2011, the U.S.F.D.A., after lengthy deliberation, issued a change in its approval of Bevacizumab (commonly sold as Avastin) for the indicated use of treatment of advanced metastatic breast cancer.

The reason why the F.D.A. changed its conclusion: the drug is too dangerous… even to those with cancer. Simply put, the risks associated with the use of Avastin as a chemotherapy agent far outweigh the previously perceived benefits of its use. Avastin has been linked to heart attacks and heart failure; dangerously high blood pressure; and, perforations of various organs such as the intestines.

If you or a loved one have taken Avastin for the treatment of metastatic breast cancer and have experienced cardiac or vascular damage, contact a New York City defective drug attorney at Finz & Finz, P.C., now toll-free at (855) TOP-FIRM or complete the Free Avastin Case Evaluation form to find out how Finz & Finz, P.C., firm can help you.

How Does Avastin Work?

Avastin functions by inhibiting a protein, vascular endothelial growth factor, which until recently, was believed to suspend the spread, or metastatic-effect, of advanced breast cancer. The efficacy of Avastin was believed to have resulted from its inhibition of the function of vascular endothelial growth factor; and, thereby, inhibiting the proliferation of new blood cells. From that mechanism, the goal was to block the spread of cancer by arresting its transport in the vascular system.

That believed benefit aside, the very mechanism of Avastin’s efficacy, and more importantly its concomitant risks (high blood pressure, cardiovascular impairment, and risk of perforation in the digestive system) are what recently prompted the F.D.A. to revoke its approval for Avastin’s indication in the treatment of breast cancer.

What are the side effects of Avastin?

The most alarming side effects of Avastin use are its potential for dangerously high blood pressure; and gastrointestinal perforations.

So alarming is the association with the development of dangerously high blood pressure and gastrointestinal perforations in connexion to Avastin use that, the F.D.A. has revoked its prior approval of its use in the treatment of breast cancer. The F.D.A. has determined that the risk of taking Avastin is outweighed by its potential for beneficial results.

Legal Help for Avastin Victims

If you or a loved one have used Avastin for the treatment of metastatic breast cancer and have experienced cardiac or vascular damage, contact a New York City defective drug attorney at Finz & Finz, P.C., now at (855) TOP-FIRM or complete the Free Avastin Case Evaluation form to find out how Finz & Finz, P.C., can help you.