Part 4/8:
While efficacy is crucial, safety remains a paramount concern in drug development. A drug's market potential could be severely compromised if it exhibits concerning safety profiles. For instance, Gilead's Zydelig, aimed at treating chronic lymphocytic leukemia, faced significant setbacks due to safety issues that prompted a black box warning and subsequent reduced sales potential.
The hosts stressed the importance of safety in a physician’s decision-making process, underscoring that doctors prioritize avoiding adverse outcomes over achieving optimal clinical efficacy.