Amgen: Xgeva can delay bone weakness, fractures among breast cancer patients

THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. — A drug made by Amgen was able to delay certain bone problems in patients with advanced breast cancer better than a competing drug, according to study results presented at the 33rd annual San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium.

Amgen said Xgeva (denosumab) was able to delay weakness and fracturing resulting from the cancer spreading to the bones five months longer than Novartis’ Zometa (zoledronic acid).

The Food and Drug Administration approved Xgeva on Nov. 18.