Business Services Industry

Deaths from Side Effects of Cancer Drug Shakes British Drugmaker AstraZeneca.

Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News, December, 2002

Daily Mail, London Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News

Dec. 27--Drugs giant AstraZeneca has been hit by mounting deaths in Japan from side effects of its cancer drug Iressa, once seen as a global blockbuster. Iressa is a last resort for lung cancer patients.

Deaths from side effects in Japan, where it went on sale in July, rose from 39 in October to 124. Tokyo's Health and Welfare Ministry said 494 patients developed severe lung disorders. Only specialists may now prescribe Iressa, and patients must stay four weeks in hospital.

AZ says: "The benefits far outweigh the risks. Of patients, 27 percent find it very beneficial, 50 percent find it stabilising."

AZ shares slumped 280 pence in August when problems first appeared....

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