What is Targeted Therapy?

Targeted therapy is a cancer treatment that uses drugs to find and attack specific cancer cells. It targets the unique features of these cells, such as certain proteins or genes, while leaving most healthy cells unharmed. It can be used alone or combined with other treatments like chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation therapy.

What are the different types of targeted therapy?

There are many kinds of targeted therapies, which are grouped into several main categories. Here are a few examples:

Angiogenesis Inhibitors: These drugs stop tumors from creating new blood vessels to get the nutrients they need to grow. An example is bevacizumab, which is used for various cancers.
Monoclonal Antibodies: These are lab-made proteins that act like your body's own antibodies. They can be designed to deliver drugs directly to cancer cells or to mark them for destruction by your immune system. Examples include trastuzumab for certain breast cancers and cetuximab for some colorectal, lung, and head and neck cancers.
Proteasome Inhibitors: These drugs interfere with cells' normal functions, leading to cancer cells' death. Bortezomib, used for multiple myeloma, is an example.
Signal Transduction Inhibitors: These treatments disrupt the signals cancer cells use to grow and divide, altering their behavior. Imatinib, used for certain chronic leukemias, is an example.

What happens before targeted therapy?

Your doctor will determine if targeted therapy is right for your type of cancer. This often involves checking your blood or a tissue sample from a biopsy for specific gene changes or mutations. These tests help your doctor identify targets that certain therapies are likely to be effective against.

What happens during targeted therapy?

Every person's treatment plan is unique, so you should ask your doctor to explain what you can expect. Here is some general information about what happens during targeted therapy:

You may take a pill by mouth, or you might get a shot under the skin (subcutaneously) or into a vein (intravenously). You will need to go to a doctor's office or treatment center for IV treatments.
Some targeted therapies are given alongside other cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation.
You may receive treatment daily, weekly, several times a week, or even just once a month or less. Sometimes, rest periods between treatments allow your body time to recover.
Your doctor will monitor your progress regularly with blood tests, X-rays, CT scans, and other procedures to see if the therapy is working. They will also ask you about any side effects you might be experiencing.

What are the benefits of targeted therapy?

A major advantage of targeted therapy is that it is designed to kill cancer cells while causing less harm to healthy cells. The drugs can also stop the growth of cancer cells. If other treatments have not been successful, your doctor may recommend targeted therapy as an option.

What are the side effects of targeted therapy?

The side effects of targeted therapy depend on the specific drug being used. Common side effects can include:

Diarrhea
Elevated liver enzymes, which may indicate liver damage.
Cardiotoxicity, or damage to the heart muscle.
Dry skin
Increased sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity).
High blood pressure.
Loss of hair and nail color.
Problems with wound healing and blood clotting.
Dermatitis, or inflammation of the skin.
Interstitial lung disease, which is scarring and inflammation in the lung tissue.

How long do the side effects of targeted therapy last?

Side effects can occur during treatment, and they vary from person to person. Most side effects from targeted therapies go away within a few months after the treatment is stopped.

What is the success rate of targeted therapy?

Targeted therapy has been a successful treatment for many cancer patients, but its success rate varies greatly. This depends on the specific type of cancer and its stage.

When should I seek help from my doctor?

The side effects of targeted therapy can be very individual. You should talk to your doctor about what you might experience during and after treatment and how to manage any serious side effects. It is always a good idea to contact them if you have any concerns.

Why choose Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Targeted Therapy in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital is one of the best hospitals for Targeted Therapy in Lucknow, India. Our experienced uro-oncologists use advanced tools to give accurate results, quick diagnosis, and better long-term care. We offer the best evaluation and treatment support with effective and affordable pricing, making the Targeted Therapy cost suitable for patients seeking high quality urologic cancer treatment in Lucknow, India.