Targeted Therapy for Cancer
Targeted therapy is a type of cancer treatment that focuses on certain proteins or genes in cancer cells. It uses drugs to attack these proteins or genes, which helps stop the cancer from growing or spreading. This type of treatment is called precision medicine because it is designed to treat the specific features of a person’s cancer.
Step-by-step process of how targeted therapy works:
- Biomarker Testing: Before starting targeted therapy, a doctor will order tests to find out which specific genes, proteins, or other factors are involved in a person's cancer. This is called biomarker testing. The results help the doctor decide if targeted therapy is the right treatment option.
- Drug Selection: After the biomarker testing, the doctor can choose the best drug combination for the individual's cancer. These drugs are designed to specifically attack the biomarkers (genes or proteins) that were identified and destroy the cancer cells.
- How targeted therapies are given: Targeted therapies can be given intravenously (IV) through a vein, or orally (in pill form), depending on the drugs being used and the person’s condition.
It's important to know that not everyone can receive targeted therapies. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved these treatments only for people with certain specific changes in their genes or proteins. This is why it’s important to talk with your doctor to see if targeted therapy is the right option for you.
Recovery and follow-up after targeted therapy can be different for each person, depending on their treatment plan. Here are some general instructions:
- Follow your doctor's instructions: It is important to follow all instructions from your healthcare team about how to take your medication, how often to take it, and any other safety steps you need to follow.
- Watch for side effects: Like any treatment, targeted therapy can cause side effects. Common side effects include diarrhea, liver problems, skin changes, blood clotting issues, and high blood pressure. Make sure to tell your doctor if you notice any new or worsening symptoms.
- Cancer cells can change: Over time, cancer cells might stop responding to targeted therapy (this is called resistance). If this happens, your doctor may need to find a different treatment.
- Regular check-ups: Your healthcare team will schedule follow-up appointments to check how well the treatment is working. These appointments may include physical exams, blood tests, imaging scans, or other tests as needed.
While complications from targeted therapy can happen, they are generally less serious than those from traditional chemotherapy. However, it's still important to be aware of any potential issues and follow your doctor’s advice to stay safe. If you experience severe side effects or have concerns about how you’re feeling after treatment, contact your doctor right away. They can help you deal with any problems and guide you through recovery.
Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Other side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.