Genentech has decided to remove Raptiva (efalizumab) from the US market. Raptiva will become unavailable in June, 2009.
All psoriasis patients currently on Raptiva should see their physician at once and not stop taking Raptiva without consulting their physician, as significant worsening of psoriasis can occasionally occur with an abrupt withdrawal of the drug.
Raptiva was recently found to have led to at least 3 deaths in patients who had taken the treatment for at least three years.
We had hoped Raptiva would remain on the market as at least an emergency option for those unable to find relief from other treatments, but we understand Genentech’s decision and respect how Genentech has handled this issue all along.
More info at Raptiva.com.
Category: Biologics, Immune system
Tags: efalizumab, FDA, Raptiva
I experienced the effects of a sudden stop and my psriasis is now worse than ever, if you don't have insurance you just have to suffer.