FDA Approves New Treatment for Skin Cancer

Erivedge, reviewed under the agency's priority review program, is the first FDA-approved drug for metastatic basal cell carcinoma.

Erivedge (vismodegib) was approved by the U.S. FDA to treat adult patients with basal cell carcinoma, the most common type of skin cancer.

The drug is intended for use in patients with locally advanced basal cell cancer who are not candidates for surgery or radiation and for patients whose cancer has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic).

Erivedge is the first FDA-approved drug for metastatic basal cell carcinoma.  Erivedge was reviewed under the FDA's priority review program that provides for an expedited six-month review of drugs that may offer major advances in treatment. The drug is being approved ahead of the March 8, 2012, prescription user fee goal date.