Everything about it

Targeted therapy is a type of cancer treatment that focuses on specific molecules or proteins that are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which can affect both healthy and cancerous cells, targeted therapy is designed to be more precise and minimize harm to healthy cells.

Targeted therapy drugs work by blocking or interfering with specific molecules or pathways that are involved in cancer cell growth and survival. For example, some drugs target proteins on the surface of cancer cells that allow them to divide and grow uncontrollably. Other drugs target specific signaling pathways within cells that are involved in cancer growth and progression.

Photo by Minh Pham

Targeted therapy is used to treat many different types of cancer, including breast cancer, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and melanoma, among others. It may be used alone or in combination with other treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

One advantage of targeted therapy is that it can often cause fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy, because it specifically targets cancer cells without harming healthy cells. However, targeted therapy can still cause side effects, which can vary depending on the specific drug being used and the individual patient.

Some common side effects of targeted therapy may include fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, skin rash, and changes in blood pressure or heart rate. Patients should always discuss any side effects with their doctor, who can help manage symptoms and adjust treatment as needed.

Targeted therapy is typically administered through intravenous infusion or oral medication. Patients may receive targeted therapy in a hospital or clinic setting, or they may be able to take their medication at home.

It's important to note that targeted therapy is not a cure for cancer, and it may not be effective for every patient or every type of cancer. However, it can be an important tool in the fight against cancer, providing patients with more treatment options and helping to improve outcomes for many people with cancer.