The answer to the question of at what stage targeted therapies are used in cancer varies depending on the genetic characteristics of the patients, their general health condition, the type of cancer, and the spread of the disease. Like all treatments, this approach is personalized to the patient. Targeted therapies provide effective results when used at the right time. Details about the stages at which targeted therapies are used in cancer are provided below.
1 – What Are Targeted Therapies?
Targeted therapies are treatments that aim at the uncontrolled growth and spread of cancer-causing cells. Cancer occurs when cells undergo genetic mutations and start to grow abnormally. Molecules that cause mutations are targeted by these drugs, stopping or reducing uncontrolled cell growth. Targeted therapies specifically attack cancerous cells while minimizing damage to healthy cells.
The unique characteristics of targeted therapies affect the answer to the question of at what stage they are used. These features include:
- Targeting specific proteins or genes that control the growth and spread of cancer cells to deliver effective results.
- Focusing on molecules present in cancer cells, sparing healthy cells from damage or causing minimal harm compared to traditional chemotherapy drugs.
- Allowing personalized treatment by identifying the protein or molecule type responsible for the disease using patient samples.
- Can be combined with other treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
- Possess various mechanisms, such as directly targeting cancer cells or preventing issues like new blood vessel formation.
- Ongoing research in this field continues to develop different drugs, affecting the answer to the question of at what stage these drugs are used.
2 – What Are the Types of Targeted Therapies?
The answer to the question of at what stage targeted therapies are used in cancer depends on the type of drug used. Different types of targeted therapies have different mechanisms and effects. Details about these drugs are presented in the table below:
| Type of Drug | Description |
|---|---|
| Gene Expression Regulators | These drugs target proteins responsible for regulating gene expression within cells. |
| Immunotherapy | Aims to enable the immune system to recognize cancer cells more effectively. Monoclonal antibodies produced specifically for cancer types bind to these cells, allowing the immune system to identify and destroy them. |
| Angiogenesis Inhibitors | Tumors require new blood vessels to grow. These drugs target the VEGF molecule responsible for new blood vessel formation, thereby slowing or halting tumor growth. |
| Apoptosis Inducers | The human body eliminates abnormally proliferating cells through a mechanism called apoptosis. These drugs stimulate this mechanism in cancer cells to make it function properly. |
| Signal Transduction Inhibitors | Tyrosine kinase is a protein responsible for transmitting signals from the external environment into the cell. When cancer cells divide uncontrollably due to received signals, these drugs block tyrosine kinase and interrupt the signals. |
3 – Who Can Use Targeted Therapies?
Targeted therapies increase life expectancy and provide effective results in cancer treatment. However, these drugs are not preferred for every cancer type. Commonly treated types include breast cancer, lung cancer, melanoma, leukemia, and colorectal cancer. The presence of specific genetic mutations or cell types is also crucial.
For advanced-stage cases with limited treatment options, targeted therapies are an important choice. Examples include patients with EGFR mutations in lung cancer or HER2-positive breast cancer.
Another important factor is the ability to tolerate side effects. While these drugs generally have fewer side effects, some patients may not tolerate them, leading to the discontinuation of treatment.
4 – How Long Are Targeted Therapies Used?
The duration of targeted therapies varies for each patient, depending on factors like the stage of the disease, planned treatment, genetic mutation type, and the patient’s response to the treatment. General approaches include:
- Used to stop tumor growth and spread, and in some cases, reduce it. If effective, treatment continues.
- In cases of resistance (when cells become immune to the drug’s effects), treatment is discontinued.
- Severe side effects may also lead to the cessation of therapy.
- Used for adjuvant or neoadjuvant treatment purposes in certain cases, with shorter durations.
5 – At What Stage Are Targeted Therapies Used in Cancer?
Targeted therapies are mostly used in advanced stages (Stage III and IV) but can also be employed in earlier stages or as neoadjuvant treatments before surgery. The decision is often made by oncology specialists based on the patient’s condition.
6 – What Are the Side Effects of Targeted Therapies?
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions and their answers regarding the stage at which smart drugs are used in cancer are listed below.
1 – At What Stage Are Targeted Therapies Used?
These drugs are mostly used in advanced stages but can also be employed in early stages depending on the patient’s condition.
2 – How Long Are Targeted Therapies Used?
The duration depends on the disease’s progression, the response to treatment, and the side effects experienced by the patient.
3 – Who Can Use Targeted Therapies?
Patients with specific genetic mutations or suitable conditions, as determined by an oncology specialist.
4 – How Are Targeted Therapies Administered?
They are available as oral tablets or capsules, and some are administered via injection.
