Targeted therapy

This drug therapy targets specific features of cancer cells, known as the molecular target, to stop the cancer cell from growing and spreading. The drug will only be given if the cancer cells have the target – it does not work for all people with the same cancer type.

Types of targeted therapy drugs

There are many different types of targeted therapy drugs. They are grouped together depending on how they work. These groups include monoclonal antibodies and small-molecule inhibitors.

• Monoclonal antibodies are a manufactured version of natural antibodies made by the body to fight infections. They lock onto a protein on the surface of cells or surrounding tissues to affect how cancer cells grow and survive.
• Small molecule inhibitors are small enough to get inside cancer cells and block certain proteins that tell cancer cells to grow.

When it’s used

Targeted therapy drugs are now available for a range of cancers, including bowel, breast, lung, leukaemia, head and neck, kidney, liver, ovarian and melanoma. For many cancers, targeted therapy is available only when the cancer is advanced. For some types, it’s also available for early-stage cancer.

Targeted therapy may be used before or after surgery. It’s sometimes used on its own, and sometimes at the same time as chemotherapy. It can be used after initial treatments if the cancer has come back, or as a long-term treatment to prevent the cancer coming back or growing.

How it’s given

It may be given as tablets or capsules that you swallow, intravenously into a vein, or as an injection under the skin. Some targeted therapy drugs are given in repeating cycles, with rest periods in between. Others are taken every day without any breaks.

Possible side effects of targeted therapy

This therapy targets cancer cells, while limiting damage to healthy cells. Some people have only a few mild side effects, while others may have more. Skin problems are a common side effect. Other side effects can include fever, fatigue, joint aches, nausea, headaches and high blood pressure. Rare side effects include problems with the heart, thyroid, liver or lungs.

It’s important to tell your doctor about any new or worsening side effects, as some can become serious if left untreated. It’s also important to tell your doctor if you’re taking any other medicines (including vitamin and herbal supplements), as these can potentially interact with targeted therapy drugs and cause side effects.

Learn more about targeted therapy.

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Video: What is targeted therapy?

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