New agent draws a bead on colorectal cancer
March 8th 2004The FDA recently approved cetuximab (Erbitux, ImClone Systems) for use in combination with irinotecan (Camptosar, Pfizer) for the treatment of epidermal growth factor receptor-1 (EGFR-1)-expressing, metastatic CRC in patients who are refractory to irinotecan-based chemotherapy. Cetuximab was also approved for use as monotherapy for the treatment of EGFR-1-expressing, metastatic CRC in those who are intolerant of irinotecan-based chemotherapy.
New drug for COPD lets patients breathe more easily
February 23rd 2004The FDA recently approved tiotropium (Spiriva HandiHaler, Pfizer/Boehringer-Ingelheim) inhalation powder for the long-term, once-daily, maintenance treatment of bronchospasm associated with COPD, including bronchitis and emphysema. In the airways, tiotropium inhibits muscarinic (M3) receptors at the smooth muscle, leading to bronchodilation. The manufacturer anticipates that tiotropium will be available in pharmacies by mid-year.