FDA Approves Pancreatic Cancer Drug That Doubles Survival

After decades of failed attempts, scientists finally cracked one of cancer's toughest puzzles. The FDA approved daraxonrasib this week, a first-of-its-kind pill that nearly doubles how long people with advanced pancreatic cancer survive.

The breakthrough targets something called KRAS mutations, which fuel tumor growth in more than 90% of pancreatic cancer cases. For years, doctors called these mutations "undruggable" because their structure made it nearly impossible for medications to stick to them.

Revolution Medicines figured out how to use a molecular glue that binds to these proteins. The result is a daily pill that works better than chemotherapy with fewer harsh side effects.

The numbers tell a powerful story. In a study of 500 patients whose cancer had stopped responding to other treatments, those taking daraxonrasib lived a median of 13.2 months compared to 6.7 months with chemotherapy.

"This is one of the most anticipated approvals I can think of," said Dr. Andrew Coveler of Fred Hutch Cancer Center. He's clear that it's not a cure, but calls it a significant improvement for patients who desperately need options.

Pancreatic cancer ranks among the deadliest cancers partly because it's so hard to catch early. The American Cancer Society estimates 67,000 new cases this year in the U.S., with more than 52,000 deaths. The five-year survival rate sits at just 13%.

The drug gained public attention when former Senator Ben Sasse shared on "60 Minutes" how it reduced his pain. So many patients wanted access that the FDA allowed expanded use even before official approval.

The Ripple Effect

This approval opens doors far beyond pancreatic cancer. Dozens of experimental drugs now in development are using similar approaches to target KRAS mutations in lung cancer and other deadly types.

"I think this has opened doors for many other companies," said Dr. Pashtoon Kasi of City of Hope Orange County. The technology Revolution Medicines developed could become the blueprint for tackling cancers that were previously impossible to treat.

The FDA approved the drug more than six months ahead of schedule. Acting Commissioner Kyle Diamantas said delivering treatments to patients quickly is the agency's fundamental duty.

Thousands of families facing one of medicine's toughest diagnoses now have real hope where there was little before.