Erdafitinib (brand name Balversa) is a targeted small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitor designed to block fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs). It is the first FGFR inhibitor approved by the FDA for specific bladder cancers.
This agent is indicated for adults with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma harboring susceptible FGFR2 or FGFR3 genetic alterations who have progressed on platinum-containing chemotherapy. By selectively binding to FGFR1–4, erdafitinib inhibits receptor phosphorylation and downstream signaling pathways.
Through FGFR blockade, erdafitinib disrupts tumor cell proliferation and survival signals, helping to control cancer progression in patients with the appropriate genetic profile.