FDA Approves New Treatment for Lung Cancer/Mesothelioma Patients

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved Opdivo, an advanced lung cancer drug. Opdivo is the first immuno-oncology drug therapy for patients with lung cancer. Mesothelioma and lung cancer are caused by exposure and inhalation of dangerous asbestos fibers. Patients usually receive chemotherapy as their first choice of treatment to treat this difficult disease. However, Mesothelioma often reoccurs as it is considered chemo resistant, making the disease difficult to treat. Opdivo now offers patients a different treatment modality after chemotherapy. Dr. Suresh Ramalingam, M.D. Professor, Chief of Thoracic Oncology and Director of Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, stated “This milestone brings to fruition the long held hope that immune-oncology medicines can be significantly effective in this difficult to treat population.”

This newly approved FDA drug may improve survival for Mesothelioma and lung cancer patients. If you have been diagnosed with Mesothelioma or lung cancer and are searching for alternative treatments after chemotherapy, ask your doctor about Opdivo. This new drug provides patients, exposed to dangerous asbestos fibers, a new treatment modality for extending survival rates and quality time with their families.