Targeted Therapy

Cancer cells typically have mutations that make them different from normal cells. If the cancer cells have a particular mutation, then doctors can use drugs that “target” them and block the messages being sent that cause the cancer cells to divide.

The mutation is identified in a process called next-generation sequencing. During this process, a small tissue sample from the tumor is removed and tested.

Whether you’re eligible for targeted therapy or not depends on the presence of specific gene mutations that have developed in the cancer cells.

Intermountain’s Precision Genomics can sequence the DNA of individual tumors and evaluate which specific mutations might be making a cancer grow. For more than 75 percent of patients with advanced-stage cancer, Intermountain is able to identify actionable mutations and offer additional treatment options, like targeted therapy.

There are two main categories of drugs used in targeted therapies:

Small molecule drugs are tiny enough to enter a cancer cell once they find it. They work by targeting a specific substance inside the cell and blocking it.
Large molecule drugs usually can't fit into a cell. They work by attacking proteins or enzymes on the surface of the cell.

Every patient and every cancer is different. Every treatment plan is also different. Your cancer treatment is always based on National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines and your specific pathology.

For targeted therapy, your team will work closely with Intermountain Precision Genomics to help personalize your treatment and identify any important clinical trials.

Targeted therapies can be given in pill form or through an IV. Oral targeted therapies can often be taken at home. IV therapies are usually done in an infusion center.

Because targeted therapy directs drugs to attack specific genetic features of cancer cells, it can be very effective at stopping cancer cells. Compared to traditional chemotherapy, there are also fewer side effects, as the drugs only destroy cancer cells, not all fast-growing cells.

Targeted therapy is different from immunotherapy and chemotherapy:

Traditional chemotherapy uses drugs to target fast-growing cells throughout the body, whether they are cancerous or not.
Immunotherapy uses drugs to activate the body’s own immune system to fight cancer cells.

Compared to both of these methods, targeted therapy directs drugs to specific genetic features on cancer cells. Targeted drugs often work by blocking cancer cells from copying themselves. This means they can help stop a cancer cell from dividing and making new cancer cells.

While side effects are generally less serious than chemotherapy, there is still some risk. Generally, the side effects depend on the specific targeted therapy drug, but can include:

Allergic-like reactions, including trouble breathing, itching or hives, dizziness, and swelling in the lips or tongue
Elevated liver enzymes
Diarrhea or constipation
Nausea and vomiting
Fatigue
High blood pressure

Frequently Asked Questions

Does targeted therapy for cancer include surgery or radiation?

Cancer cells can become resistant to targeted therapy. For this reason, targeted therapy may work best when used with other cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery

Is targeted therapy better than chemotherapy?

Targeted therapy can have fewer side effects than chemotherapy, but not everyone is a candidate for it. Very often, both treatments are used together.

Why is targeted therapy used?

Targeted therapy can be very effective, especially against certain kinds of breast cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, and melanoma. Targeted therapies are a rapidly growing field of cancer research and researchers are studying many new targets and drugs through clinical trials.

Does targeted therapy cause hair loss?

This depends on the type of drug used for targeted therapy. Some targeted drugs can cause the hair on your head to become thin, dry and brittle, or even curly. There can be a risk of bald patches or complete loss of scalp hair with certain long-term targeted therapies. These changes usually don’t happen right away. Ask your cancer care team about side effects.

Does targeted therapy shrink tumors?

Targeted therapy can help stop a cancer cell from dividing and making new cancer cells. That means it often shrinks a tumor. In other cases, the tumor remains stable, which means it doesn’t grow in size on scans, but also does not shrink or disappear.

How long does targeted therapy for cancer take?

Because your cancer is unique, your treatment plan will be too, including the duration and intensity of treatments. The length of treatment also depends on the targeted therapy being used and how your body reacts to treatment.

How does targeted therapy work?

When is targeted therapy used?

Types of Targeted Therapy

Your Team at Intermountain Cancer Center

How is targeted therapy given?

Advantages of Targeted Therapy for Cancer

Is targeted therapy the same as immunotherapy or chemotherapy?

Side Effects of Targeted Therapy for Cancer Treatment