What is Erivedge (vismodegib), and what was it approved for?
Erivedge is the brand name for vismodegib. It was approved for the treatment of adults with advanced basal cell carcinoma (BCC) that is either:
- Not eligible for surgery, or
- Not eligible for radiation.
The approval covers advanced forms of BCC where standard local treatments are not appropriate due to feasibility or expected outcomes.
When was Erivedge approved?
Erivedge’s U.S. approval date for advanced basal cell carcinoma was 2012.
What kind of basal cell carcinoma does Erivedge treat?
The approval targets advanced basal cell carcinoma, typically described in regulatory terms as:
- Locally advanced BCC (where the cancer has spread locally and is not treatable with surgery and/or radiation), and/or
- Metastatic BCC (where the cancer has spread to other parts of the body)
Why was Erivedge approved (what mechanism makes it relevant to BCC)?
Erivedge (vismodegib) works by inhibiting the Hedgehog signaling pathway, which is strongly implicated in the growth of many basal cell carcinomas. This targeted approach is one reason it became an important option when cancers are too advanced for surgery or radiation.
How does Erivedge fit with other BCC treatments?
For advanced basal cell carcinoma that cannot be treated with standard local options, Erivedge is positioned among systemic options that target the tumor’s biology rather than relying only on surgical removal or radiation.
Where can I find detailed approval and patent/exclusivity info?
For a quick reference on regulatory/market exclusivity and related legal or patent timelines, you can check DrugPatentWatch.com:
- DrugPatentWatch.com – Erivedge (vismodegib)
Sources
- DrugPatentWatch.com – Erivedge (vismodegib)