{"id":1097,"date":"2025-09-05T12:50:49","date_gmt":"2025-09-05T12:50:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/?p=1097"},"modified":"2025-09-05T12:50:49","modified_gmt":"2025-09-05T12:50:49","slug":"targeted-cancer-therapy-personalised-treatment","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/targeted-cancer-therapy-personalised-treatment\/","title":{"rendered":"Targeted Cancer Therapy: A Step Towards Personalised Treatment"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cancer treatment has come a long way, yet patients often face the challenge: of side effects as traditional therapies like chemotherapy and radiation can affect both cancerous and healthy cells, leading to unwanted side effects and variable results. This might result in prolonged recovery, uncertainty, and a constant search for more effective options with possible less side effects.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Targeted cancer therapy is changing this narrative. By focusing on the genetic and molecular features that drive growth and progression of a patient&#8217;s tumour, this can be a position way of treating the tumours and sparing healthy tissue. At Venkateshwar Hospitals, oncologists are increasingly integrating targeted therapy for personalized treatment plans, offering patients a tailored approach.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here, we\u2019ll explain in simple words how targeted therapy works, who are the patients that are most likely getting the benefit, and how it is reshaping cancer care with a more precise and personalized approach.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/targeted-cancer-therapy-personalised-treatment\/#What_is_Targeted_Therapy\" >What is Targeted Therapy?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/targeted-cancer-therapy-personalised-treatment\/#What_are_the_Types_of_Targeted_Therapy\" >What are the Types of Targeted Therapy?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/targeted-cancer-therapy-personalised-treatment\/#Who_Can_Benefit_from_Targeted_Cancer_Therapy\" >Who Can Benefit from Targeted Cancer Therapy?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/targeted-cancer-therapy-personalised-treatment\/#Benefits_of_Targeted_Cancer_Therapy\" >Benefits of Targeted Cancer Therapy<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/targeted-cancer-therapy-personalised-treatment\/#Risks_and_Limitations\" >Risks and Limitations<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/targeted-cancer-therapy-personalised-treatment\/#How_Does_Targeted_Therapy_Work_Against_Cancer\" >How Does Targeted Therapy Work Against Cancer?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/targeted-cancer-therapy-personalised-treatment\/#Are_There_Drawbacks_to_Targeted_Therapy\" >Are There Drawbacks to Targeted Therapy?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/targeted-cancer-therapy-personalised-treatment\/#What_are_the_Side_Effects_of_Targeted_Therapy\" >What are the Side Effects of Targeted Therapy?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/targeted-cancer-therapy-personalised-treatment\/#What_Can_I_Expect_When_Having_Targeted_Therapy\" >What Can I Expect When Having Targeted Therapy?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/targeted-cancer-therapy-personalised-treatment\/#Where_Can_I_Find_Out_About_Clinical_Trials_of_Targeted_Therapy\" >Where Can I Find Out About Clinical Trials of Targeted Therapy?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/targeted-cancer-therapy-personalised-treatment\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/targeted-cancer-therapy-personalised-treatment\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/targeted-cancer-therapy-personalised-treatment\/#1_How_does_targeted_cancer_therapy_work\" >1. How does targeted cancer therapy work?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/targeted-cancer-therapy-personalised-treatment\/#2_What_is_the_difference_between_chemotherapy_and_targeted_therapy\" >2. What is the difference between chemotherapy and targeted therapy?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/targeted-cancer-therapy-personalised-treatment\/#3_Is_targeted_therapy_the_same_as_immunotherapy\" >3. Is targeted therapy the same as immunotherapy?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/targeted-cancer-therapy-personalised-treatment\/#4_How_is_targeted_therapy_administered\" >4. How is targeted therapy administered?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/targeted-cancer-therapy-personalised-treatment\/#5_Can_targeted_therapy_be_combined_with_other_treatments\" >5. Can targeted therapy be combined with other treatments?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/targeted-cancer-therapy-personalised-treatment\/#6_How_long_does_targeted_therapy_last\" >6. How long does targeted therapy last?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/targeted-cancer-therapy-personalised-treatment\/#7_Is_genetic_testing_required_before_starting_targeted_therapy\" >7. Is genetic testing required before starting targeted therapy?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_Targeted_Therapy\"><\/span><b>What is Targeted Therapy?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Targeted therapy is a type of cancer therapy that attacks specific genetic mutuation in cancer cells that help them grow and spread. Unlike chemotherapy, which affects all rapidly dividing cells, targeted therapy selectively attacks the cancer cells, sparing most healthy cells.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Think of it like a \u201csmart bullet\u201d that seeks out its target rather than causing widespread damage.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_the_Types_of_Targeted_Therapy\"><\/span><b>What are the Types of Targeted Therapy?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are different types of targeted therapies, each designed to attack cancer in a unique way based on the tumour\u2019s genetic and molecular features. Following are the main types and their mechanism of action.<\/span><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Type<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>How It Works<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>How It Helps \/ Details<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Monoclonal antibodies<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lab-made proteins that attach to specific markers on cancer cell surface<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These antibodies mark cancer cells for the immune system, and others deliver toxins directly to the tumour e.g , Trastuzumab, TDMI<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Small-molecule inhibitors<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Block signals inside cancer cells that arrest their capability to grow &amp; divide<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tyrosine kinase inhibitors are a typical example: Imatinib, Gefitinib<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Angiogenesis inhibitors<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stop tumours from forming new blood vessels, cutting off their nutrient supply<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Helps shrink or control tumour growth, e.g., Bevacizumab, Ramucirumab<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Targeted immunotherapy<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Makes cancer cells more visible to the immune system, allowing it to attack<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Enhance the body\u2019s own immune system to kill tumour cells, e.g., Pembrolizumab, Nivolumab<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_Can_Benefit_from_Targeted_Cancer_Therapy\"><\/span><b>Who Can Benefit from Targeted Cancer Therapy?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Targeted cancer therapy is not indicated for every patient. Its eligibility depends on:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Presence of specific genetic mutations (e.g., HER2, EGFR, PDL1)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Type and stage of cancer \u2013 Stage 4<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Overall health and prior treatments \u2013 <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/facts-you-should-know-about-your-heart-health\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cardiac health<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Immunotherapy can be given in the recurrent setting<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>It is commonly used in cancers such as:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Breast cancer<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lung cancer<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Colorectal cancer<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Certain <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/haemato-oncology-and-bone-marrow-transplant-cancer.php\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">blood cancers<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, including leukaemia, lymphoma etc.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kidney Cancer<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Head &amp; Neck Cancer<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Liver Cancer<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stomach Cancer<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Melanoma Cancer<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before starting therapy, oncologists at Venkateshwar Hospital perform biomarker or genomic testing to identify whether the tumour carries actionable mutations. This ensures the treatment is tailored precisely to each patient\u2019s needs.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Learn more about &#8211;<\/b> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/early-signs-symptoms-breast-cancer\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Early Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer You Shouldn\u2019t Ignore<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Benefits_of_Targeted_Cancer_Therapy\"><\/span><b>Benefits of Targeted Cancer Therapy<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Targeted therapy offers several significant benefits:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Precision:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> It acts specifically on cancer cells with the mutation, leaving most healthy cells unharmed.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Reduced damage:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Healthy cells experience less stress compared to traditional chemotherapy.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Fewer side effects:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Many patients tolerate treatment better, experiencing milder discomfort.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Option after other treatments:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Targeted therapy may be effective when standard chemotherapy or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/radiation-oncology-cancer.php\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">radiation<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> alone does not provide results, depending on the tumour\u2019s genetic profile.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Risks_and_Limitations\"><\/span><b>Risks and Limitations<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Like all <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/cancer.php\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">cancer treatments<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, targeted therapy comes with specific challenges:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some therapies, such as angiogenesis inhibitors, may <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/managing-high-blood-pressure\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">cause high blood pressure<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, while others can affect the liver or cause fatigue.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tumours may develop resistance over time, reducing effectiveness.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Targeted therapies can\u2019t be given to all<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cost and availability may limit access for some patients.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Read more about<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/top-myths-about-cancer\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Top Myths About Cancer: Debunked by Oncology Experts<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Does_Targeted_Therapy_Work_Against_Cancer\"><\/span><b>How Does Targeted Therapy Work Against Cancer?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Targeted therapy drugs interfere with the life cycle of cancer cells in multiple ways:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Blocking growth signals that allow cancer cells to multiply<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Preventing blood vessel formation (angiogenesis) that feeds tumours<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Triggering cell death (apoptosis) in mutated cells<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Making tumours more visible to the immune system<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Are_There_Drawbacks_to_Targeted_Therapy\"><\/span><b>Are There Drawbacks to Targeted Therapy?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Targeted therapy is a powerful and precise treatment modality in modern cancer care, but it is not without limitations. Some key considerations include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Resistance may develop:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Over time, cancer cells can adapt or mutate, making the therapy less effective.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Not all cancers have identified targets:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Only cancers with specific, validated molecular targets can benefit from targeted therapy.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Limited options for rare mutations:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Some uncommon mutations may not yet have approved drugs, although clinical trials may provide access to new therapies.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Cost and resource requirements:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Targeted therapy can be expensive and may require regular monitoring, lab tests, or frequent hospital visits.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Understanding these limitations helps patients set realistic expectations while exploring the most suitable treatment options.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_the_Side_Effects_of_Targeted_Therapy\"><\/span><b>What are the Side Effects of Targeted Therapy?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Side effects vary depending on the type of targeted drug, and not every patient experiences the same reactions. Common side effects may include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Skin rashes, dryness, or sensitivity<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diarrhoea or digestive changes<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fatigue or tiredness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Elevated blood pressure (more common with certain drugs)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Liver enzyme changes or other organ-specific effects<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Autoimmune diseases \u2013 especially in immunotherapy<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unlike chemotherapy, targeted therapy often spares many healthy cells, but some side effects can still be significant. Close monitoring by your oncology team at Venkateshwar Hospital ensures side effects are identified early and managed effectively.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Can_I_Expect_When_Having_Targeted_Therapy\"><\/span><b>What Can I Expect When Having Targeted Therapy?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Targeted therapy can be administered in different ways depending on the drug and your treatment plan:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oral tablets or capsules taken at home<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Intravenous (IV) infusions at a hospital in day care<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Subcutaneous injection in some cases<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Treatment schedules vary\u2014some therapies are daily for example, oral tablets such as gefitinib, others weekly\/monthly Immunotherapy &amp; antibodies. Regular follow-ups, including blood tests and imaging, help monitor response to treatment and detect side effects early. Patients are encouraged to discuss questions about duration, expected results, and lifestyle considerations with their oncologist.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_Can_I_Find_Out_About_Clinical_Trials_of_Targeted_Therapy\"><\/span><b>Where Can I Find Out About Clinical Trials of Targeted Therapy?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clinical trials play a vital role in developing new targeted therapies. They give eligible patients access to drugs that are not yet widely available.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doctors are the best guides for referring for a suitable clinical trial. They consider medical history, type of cancer, and overall health before making recommendations. Participating in a trial may provide access to new a treatment, but it also comes with risks that need careful discussion with the healthcare team.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><b>Conclusion<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Targeted therapy represents a significant step forward in modern cancer care. Focusing on the genetic drivers of cancer, it offers patients a chance at more effective treatment with fewer side effects.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Venkateshwar Hospital<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, the oncology team is committed to using advanced approaches like targeted therapy wherever suitable, ensuring that patients receive care that is both scientific and compassionate.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you or your loved one is exploring cancer treatment options, it is best to speak with your oncologist about eligibility for targeted therapy. Staying informed and asking the right questions ensures that patients receive care most suited to their needs.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span><b>Frequently Asked Questions<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_How_does_targeted_cancer_therapy_work\"><\/span><b>1. How does targeted cancer therapy work?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It focuses on specific genes or proteins that help cancer cells grow and spread. Targeted drugs block these signals, making it harder for cancer cells to survive.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_What_is_the_difference_between_chemotherapy_and_targeted_therapy\"><\/span><b>2. What is the difference between chemotherapy and targeted therapy?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chemotherapy affects all fast-growing cells, including healthy ones, whereas targeted therapy selectively attacks cancer cells with specific mutations and altered genetic signature.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Is_targeted_therapy_the_same_as_immunotherapy\"><\/span><b>3. Is targeted therapy the same as immunotherapy?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No. Immunotherapy stimulates and strengthens the immune system to fight cancer, while targeted therapy directly attacks molecules in cancer cells. Some patients may receive both under careful medical supervision.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_How_is_targeted_therapy_administered\"><\/span><b>4. How is targeted therapy administered?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Depending on the drug, it can be administered as oral tablets\/capsules at home, by injection, or through IV infusions at a hospital or clinic.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Can_targeted_therapy_be_combined_with_other_treatments\"><\/span><b>5. Can targeted therapy be combined with other treatments?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes. Oncologists may combine targeted therapy with chemotherapy, radiation, or immunotherapy, depending on the patient\u2019s cancer type and overall health.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_How_long_does_targeted_therapy_last\"><\/span><b>6. How long does targeted therapy last?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Duration varies by drug, cancer type, and response. Some patients take it daily or weekly, while others continue for several months. Your oncologist will decide the best plan.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Is_genetic_testing_required_before_starting_targeted_therapy\"><\/span><b>7. Is genetic testing required before starting targeted therapy?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes. Most patients undergo biomarker or genetic testing to confirm whether their tumour carries mutations that make targeted therapy effective.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Medically Reviewed by\u200a \u2014 <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/doctor-profile\/dr-siddharth-sahai\"><b>Dr Siddharth Sahai<\/b><\/a><b> (Director &#8211; Medical Oncology)<\/b><\/p>\n<p><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n  \"mainEntity\": [\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"How does targeted cancer therapy work?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"It focuses on specific genes or proteins that help cancer cells grow and spread. 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This might result in prolonged recovery, uncertainty, and a constant search for more effective options with possible&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":1099,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[285],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1097","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-targeted-cancer"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1097","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1097"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1097\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1098,"href":"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1097\/revisions\/1098"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1099"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1097"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1097"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.venkateshwarhospitals.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1097"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}