FDA approves Vismodegib for basal cell carcinoma

Vismodegib (see structure) under trade name Erivedge from Roche has been approved by FDA for the treatment of basal cell carcinoma (BCC), the most common type of skin cancer. The drug is intended for the treatment of adults with metastatic basal cell carcinoma, or with locally advanced basal cell carcinoma who are not candidates for surgery and radiation. The drug works by inhibiting the hedgehog pathway, a pathway active in most basal cell cancers. It is the first FDA-approved drug for BCC that inhibits the hedgehog pathway. 

Animation on Hedgehog signaling pathway.  

 

“Our understanding of molecular pathways involved in cancer, such as the Hedgehog pathway, has enabled the development of targeted drugs for specific diseases,” said Richard Pazdur, M.D., director of the Office of Hematology and Oncology Products in the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. “This approach is becoming more common and will potentially allow cancer drugs to be developed more quickly. This is important for patients who will have access to more effective therapies with potentially fewer side effects.”

 Press release from FDA and Roche.