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Targeted therapies are cancer medications that work more selectively than standard chemotherapy medications. They do this by targeting specific molecules or genetic changes in cancer cells in order to stop them from growing and spreading.
Unlike chemotherapy, which attacks all rapidly dividing cells, including healthy ones, targeted therapies work by interfering with the cancer’s specific pathways. Because of this, targeted therapy can slow the cancer from progressing or even shrink tumors while causing less damage to healthy cells.
Lung Cancer Care Tailored to You
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Biomarker Testing for Lung Cancer
Only people with certain abnormalities in their genes are good candidates for targeted therapies. To find out if you have one of these abnormalities, a physician will order a biomarker test, which involves testing a sample of your lung tissue.
The current standard of care is to test for changes in the genes EGFR, ALK, ROS1 and BRAF, which we do using UW-OncoPlex, a diagnostic tool developed by researchers at UW Medicine. Treatments are being developed to target other genetic changes as well.
If you do not test positive for a biomarker, and are not a candidate for targeted therapy, there are other treatment options such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy or a combination of these treatment types. Many patients at Fred Hutch also receive promising therapies by taking part in clinical trials.
How Targeted Therapy is Used to Treat Lung Cancer
Targeted therapy is used to treat specific types of lung cancer, especially non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This approach is used most often in people with advanced lung cancer as well as lung cancer that has come back. It is also particularly effective for lung cancers with certain mutations, such as changes in the EGFR gene (which controls cell growth) or the presence of ALK or ROS1 gene rearrangements.
How Targeted Therapy is Given to Patients
Targeted therapy for lung cancer is typically prescribed as pills, tablets or capsules that you take at home. Your physician will decide the most appropriate method based on the specific drug being used and your individual treatment plan. Treatment is usually ongoing, with regular appointments to monitor how the therapy is working and to manage any side effects you may have. Some targeted therapies are given through intravenous (IV) infusions.
Why Choose Fred Hutch for Targeted Therapy for Lung Cancer
Fred Hutch physician-researchers are actively studying the inner workings of cancer cells in order to discover new drug targets. These researchers work to pinpoint the critical genetic changes that promote lung cancer and translate these insights into targeted therapies for patients’ individual tumors. At Fred Hutch, patients have access to newer targeted therapies in clinical trials that aren’t available elsewhere.
While targeted therapy is often well-tolerated, it can still cause side effects. Common side effects include diarrhea and liver problems. Some targeted therapies might cause other side effects, like blood clots, high blood pressure or extreme tiredness. Your Fred Hutch care team works with lung cancer patients every day who are receiving targeted therapy and understand their unique issues and concerns. They can help you manage any side effects you might experience.
To prepare for targeted therapy, make sure you understand the treatment plan and potential side effects. Keep a journal or jot down notes about any symptoms or side effects you have and share them with your physician promptly. Drinking plenty of water, eating a balanced diet and getting enough rest can help you feel better, too.