Study shows pancreatic cancer drug doubles survival for majority of patients

Researchers published findings showing that daraxonrasib, an experimental pancreatic cancer drug, doubled survival rates for more than 90 percent of patients who received it, according to a new study.

Scientists conducting the research identified the drug as a potential treatment option for one of the most lethal forms of cancer. Pancreatic cancer has historically carried a poor prognosis, with five-year survival rates among the lowest of all cancer types.

The study results prompted researchers to pursue additional trials. They plan to test whether daraxonrasib proves effective against lung cancer, ovarian cancer, and colorectal cancer.

Expanding the drug's application across multiple cancer types would require conducting separate clinical trials for each condition. Researchers typically must demonstrate safety and efficacy in new patient populations before seeking regulatory approval for additional uses.

The findings represent progress in pancreatic cancer treatment, an area where therapeutic options remain limited. NBC News medical correspondent Erika Edwards reported on the study.