FDA Approves New Pancreatic Cancer Drug That Could Extend Patients' Lives
Updated on: August 26, 2026 / 8:07 PM EDT / CBS/AP
TL;DR
- The FDA granted expedited approval for daraxonrasib, a new pill for advanced pancreatic cancer.
- The drug targets a mutated protein that fuels tumor growth in over 90% of pancreatic cancer cases.
- In a study, patients on daraxonrasib nearly doubled their survival time (median 13.2 months vs. 6.7 months with chemotherapy).
- Side effects included skin rash, mouth sores, and digestive issues.
- The monthly cost for Rasonque is approximately $39,800.
- Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest cancers, with a low survival rate due to late detection.
- Former Sen. Ben Sasse, a trial participant, described the drug as a 'miracle drug' and reported a significant reduction in tumor volume.
- The development of this drug opens doors for new treatment approaches in other cancer types.