Comment from Lewis Barbara
AnonymousOpposeIndividual
Summary: A patient living with GPA expresses strong opposition to withdrawing the approval of TAVNEOS (Avacopan). The commenter argues that the drug is a vital treatment option that provides better outcomes than previous medications and that removing it would leave patients with fewer safe choices.
I have been living with GPA for over 10 years. I have taken many medications including a dozen rounds of Prednisone which has, thankfully, been replaced by avacopan/TAVNEOS. Over the years, my body has been harmed by vasculitis as well as by my limited treatment options. Many pharmaceuticals have warnings regarding damage, but with monitoring, safe choices can be made. There is no cure for vasculitis. Thus far, I have had no damage caused by TAVNEOS. Going back to Prednisone is not a choice that should be taken out of the hands of the patient and the physicians. Each case is different. The risks for each person can vary over time. Some treatment options simply are not tolerated by my body. Right now, TAVNEOS is the best choice for me. Is TAVNEOS dangerous for some? Maybe. But, untreated GPA is much more dangerous. Please do conduct more research that does not remove this godsend from patients.