29_35x90 knx_35x90

Health

FDA Panel Votes Against Avastin For Breast Cancer Treatment

View Comments
(credit: AP Photo/David Grubbs)

(credit: AP Photo/David Grubbs)

Lisa_Sigell_08062010

Reporting Lisa Sigell

Featured Gallery
Namaste: Yoga Poses For Beginners

For more trusted health

news and information,

visit CBS Los Angeles's

Photo Galleries

LOS ANGELES (CBS) — In a decision that could affect millions of women, a Food and Drug Administration advisory panel found that the best-selling cancer drug in the world should not be used on breast cancer patients.

The panel of cancer experts has ruled that Avastin should no longer be used in breast cancer patients, clearing the way for the government to remove its endorsement from the drug.

The vote is not binding, which means the FDA commissioner will make the final decision.

Doctors could still prescribe it for breast cancer patients, but most insurance companies would not cover the cost.

This is the second time an FDA panel has voted to stop Avastin for breast cancer treatment. The original vote was appealed by the company that produces it.

Many breast cancer patients who have used Avastin claim it has helped them.

View Comments
blog comments powered by Disqus
Listen Live!

Featured Health Stories

Lisa Sigell
Health Watch Reports
Lisa Sigell has the very latest heath stories in her “Health Watch” report. » Latest Reports » More On Lisa
Health Watch Questions
Send your health-related questions to Lisa Sigell and she may feature them in her segment. E-mail your questions to healthwatchquestions@gmail.com.

Video News