Health | Charlottesville Daily Progress
About Molecular-Targeted Therapies
The following is a list of questions to ask your doctor About Molecular-Targeted Therapies  as well as tips for preparing for these conversations.

1. What are molecular-targeted therapies?

Molecular targeted therapies (MTTs) are a type of cancer treatment that works more directly on cancer cells than standard treatments do. Molecular-targeted therapies target cancer cells very specifically. They target only the parts of cells that encourage the abnormal growth of tumors, or they target blood vessels that encourage tumors to grow. As a result, the damage to normal cells is minimized, thus lowering the severity of side effects.

2. How are MTTs different from other types of cancer treatment?

Cancer is caused when cells grow too quickly, so most types of cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, work by destroying rapidly dividing cells in the body. However, many healthy cells in your body divide rapidly, so these forms of treatment can hurt those healthy cells, too. Molecular-targeted therapies work by targeting something specific in cancer cells only, and therefore, they cause less harm to the rest of the body.

3. What are the most common side effects of MTTs?

The side effects of MTTs vary based on which drug you are using and your treatment regimen. However, the side effects most commonly reported include rash, dry skin, diarrhea, loss of appetite, nausea, tiredness, fever and constipation. The most serious side effects include an allergic reaction, lung inflammation, blood clots, heart failure and low blood pressure. Be sure to ask your doctor about the side effects most commonly associated with the particular MTT being prescribed.

4. How are MTTs administered?

Depending on the type, a MTT may be given as either an oral pill, or it may be injected directly into your blood stream with an IV. These drugs may be given instead of chemotherapy, or in addition to it. Be sure to discuss with your doctor which options are available, the pros and cons of each and which method works best with your lifestyle.

5. What types of cancers are being treated with MTTs?

Currently, there are MTTs approved for the treatment of breast cancer, chronic myeloid leukemia, colorectal cancer, some head and neck cancers, lung cancer, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and pancreatic cancer. There are also many clinical trials available that are testing the effectiveness of MTTs for the treatment of other cancers. If a MTT has not yet been approved for your type of cancer, be sure to ask your doctor if there are any clinical trials under way.

Write a list of all your questions and concerns beforehand.

  • Be sure to ask if a MTT is an option for your treatment.
  • Bring a binder or notebook to jot down notes during your appointment.
  • Don't be afraid to ask for further clarification if you don't understand something.
  • Ask your doctor if you qualify for any clinical trials that may be under way.

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