Memorial Cancer Institute among first in South Florida to acquire breakthrough drug to treat pancreatic cancer

PEMBROKE PINES, Fla., Aug. 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Memorial Cancer Institute is the first cancer program in Broward County, Florida to obtain daraxonrasib, a drug representing one of the most significant breakthroughs in pancreatic cancer treatment in decades. This breakthrough treatment for pancreatic cancer has since received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Before the drug was commercially available, Memorial's physicians, research professionals, pharmacists, regulatory specialists, and clinical teams worked tirelessly to obtain daraxonrasib through the FDA's Expanded Access ("compassionate use") program, providing a patient access to this promising therapy.  

The FDA's approval of daraxonrasib, now marketed as Rasonque, provides a new treatment option for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer who previously had limited treatment options.

Memorial's early access to the treatment reinforces Memorial Cancer Institute's commitment to ensuring South Florida patients have access to the newest and most promising cancer therapies as early as possible.

The effort was led by Dr. Jesus Fabregas, who directs Memorial Cancer Institute's Gastrointestinal (GI) Malignancy Research Program, together with an expert multidisciplinary team dedicated to identifying every possible treatment opportunity for patients.

"Whatever medicine we came up with wouldn't block the protein that allows cancer cells to grow out of control and now finally we're able to grab that angiogenic protein and shut it down," said Fabregas, "It's not a cure, but it's a big step for humanity. Patients live longer, have a better quality of life, less pain, and more happy times with family and friends". 

Russell Reed was diagnosed with Stage 2B pancreatic cancer in 2024 after returning home from vacation and experiencing persistent pain in his side. Following surgery and multiple rounds of chemotherapy, he became the first patient at Memorial Cancer Institute to receive daraxonrasib through the FDA's Expanded Access program in July 2026.

The program provided him access to the treatment before it received FDA approval. offering renewed hope after conventional treatment options had been exhausted.

"The hope is, and the anecdotal evidence out of all this is that when it shrinks the tumors the pain will go away, and I have noticed a slight decrease so far, so that's the hope and that's where the quality comes in," said Russell.

According to Revolution Medicines, the manufacturer of the drug, in a 500-patient trial, the average patient lived 13 months compared with 6.6 months for those receiving chemotherapy.

Memorial Cancer Institute continues to advance cancer care by expanding access to promising therapies through clinical trials, groundbreaking research and innovative treatment pathways. Through collaboration among physicians, researchers, pharmacists and clinical teams, the institute works to bring new treatment options to patients as early as possible. Patients interested in learning more about daraxonrasib or determining whether the treatment may be appropriate for can call Memorial Cancer Institute's dedicated phone line at 754-714-4300 to schedule an appointment or obtain additional information.

About Memorial Healthcare System 

South Florida-based Memorial Healthcare System is a national leader in quality care and patient, physician and employee satisfaction. Its commitment to deeper caring, smarter health and community outreach prioritizes a person-centered approach that has delivered safe, positive outcomes for more than 70 years. 

Memorial is committed to healing the body, mind and spirit of those in its care. For more information, visit mhs.net and connect on Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn. 

Media Contact: 

Veronica Owen
[email protected]

SOURCE Memorial Cancer Institute