From: Buehler, Gary J
Sent: Wednesday, August 06, 2003 10:24 AM
To: Dockets, FDA
Subject: FW: Generic Ribavirin



-----Original Message-----
From: David Erickson [mailto:derickson@sleh.com] 
Sent: Wednesday, August 06, 2003 10:15 AM
To: buehler@cder.fda.gov
Subject: Generic Ribavirin


Dear Director Buehler and Dockets Management staff,

I am writing to strongly urge FDA to immediately approve generic ribavirin capsules for use in the treatment of hepatitis C and to oppose the recently submitted "Citizen Petition" by the brand manufacture of this drug simply designed to delay that approval. The petition is yet another tactic by brand drug makers to misuse the FDA in a desperate effort to deny people with hepatitis C legal and timely access to competitive, safe, effective, lower cost equivalent treatments. 
Our organization provides education and support to approximately 8,000 patients with hepatitis C.  Many of them, even some with insurance, cannot afford the $1,800/month for "brand-name" ribavirin for the typical treatment regimen for 11 months. Good, tax-paying Americans are dying because they cannot afford treatment. 
Please approve generic ribavirin applications as soon as possible! 

Dave Erickson, Ph.D.
Director of Education
Texas Liver Coalition 
St. Luke's Liver Institute
6720 Bertner Ave. 23rd floor
Houston, TX  77030
1 800 725 4837




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