Detailed treatment guide
Targeted therapy is designed to act on specific molecular features that help cancer cells grow, divide or spread. Hormonal therapy is used for cancers whose growth is influenced by particular hormones. Both approaches are selected only when clinically appropriate.
At a glance
Targeted medicines may act on proteins or molecular pathways involved in cancer growth. Because targets differ between cancers, testing of the tumor or other clinical information may be needed to determine whether a targeted approach is relevant.
Hormonal therapy can slow or stop the growth of cancers that use hormones to grow, including selected breast and prostate cancers. It may be used alone or with other treatments depending on the clinical situation.
Targeted and hormonal medicines can be administered in different ways, including tablets, injections or intravenous treatment, depending on the medicine. The treating team explains the specific schedule and administration method.
Treatment response and side effects are monitored over time. Some cancers can develop resistance to targeted treatment, so the clinical team may reassess the treatment plan when the disease or treatment response changes.
Important
This page provides general educational information. A qualified treating professional must determine the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up plan for an individual patient.
