The anti-cancer drug nintedanib, marketed under the brand names Ofev and Vargatef, recently received the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) approval to treat a lung scarring condition called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. While not the same as mesothelioma, the two conditions have similarities. Clinical trials have begun in the U.S. to determine the drug’s efficacy in fighting mesothelioma by 2016.
Tests of the drug showed an increased amount of air in exhalations from patients’ lungs, a sign that lung function was improving while undergoing treatment. Trouble breathing and a persistent dry cough are early mesothelioma symptoms, so this drug could be used in the future to help alleviate those symptoms.
Ofev is also being tested for other types of cancer, including colorectal, ovarian and kidney cancers.
The Costs of My Mesothelioma Treatment is Too Much. Is There Anyone Who Can Help Me?
The costs of treating mesothelioma often runs into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. One way you can help mitigate the cost for yourself is to seek legal action against the company responsible for your asbestos exposure. It is never too late to seek out an experienced mesothelioma lawyer.
Harrell & Nowak have experienced tremendous success in helping victims of mesothelioma caused by asbestos. To talk to an asbestos lawyer about your situation, give our Louisiana mesothelioma lawyers a call today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Harrell & Nowak, L.L.C.– Louisiana Mesothelioma Attorneys
Source: http://www.asbestos.com/news/2014/12/08/new-drug-ofev-may-help-mesothelioma-patients/
Did You Know? Because it remains asymptomatic and undetected for a long time, a mesothelioma prognosis may be less favorable than many other forms of cancer.