Angelica Pasculli seeks access to US cancer drug unavailable in Europe

Angelica Pasculli, a mother battling pancreatic cancer, is appealing for access to daraxonrasib, a new drug available in the United States but not yet in Europe. While not a definitive cure, clinical studies suggest the molecule may extend patient survival by approximately six months compared to standard chemotherapy.

Pasculli has addressed her plea to Italian President Sergio Mattarella and the Italian Medicines Agency (AIFA). AIFA has attempted to negotiate with the California-based biotech firm Revolution Medicines to allow compassionate use, but the company has remained elusive regarding immediate access.

The situation highlights significant tensions regarding the pricing of innovative medicines. In the U.S., the drug costs approximately $39,800 for a 30-day supply, totaling nearly $480,000 annually. AIFA estimates that treating 4,000 eligible patients in Italy would cost the state €1.6 billion, leading to a standoff over price reductions and delayed product launches in the European market.