Oncology

Targeted Cancer Therapy

Oncology & Immunology

Mark this drug class

Examples

imatiniberlotinibosimertinibtrastuzumabbevacizumab

Prefix / Suffix: -tinib for kinase inhibitors; -mab for monoclonal antibodies

Physiology

Some cancers depend on specific mutations, receptors, or growth signals. Targeted therapies interfere with those signals more selectively than traditional chemotherapy.

Mechanism of Action

They block abnormal kinases, receptors, angiogenesis pathways, or tumor-specific proteins to slow growth or trigger cancer cell death.

Indications

  • Cancers with actionable biomarkers
  • HER2-positive breast or gastric cancer
  • EGFR/ALK-driven lung cancers
  • CML with BCR-ABL
  • Tumors needing anti-angiogenesis therapy

Side Effects / Adverse Effects

  • Rash and diarrhea with EGFR inhibitors
  • Hypertension and bleeding risk with bevacizumab
  • Cardiotoxicity with trastuzumab
  • Fluid retention
  • Liver enzyme elevation

Contraindications

  • Pregnancy for many agents
  • Uncontrolled hypertension or recent major surgery with bevacizumab
  • Reduced cardiac function with HER2 agents
  • Missing required biomarker when drug depends on it

Nursing Considerations

  • Confirm biomarker testing when applicable
  • Monitor blood pressure, cardiac function, liver labs, and skin/GI effects based on agent
  • Teach adherence for oral targeted therapy
  • Review interactions such as grapefruit or CYP-affecting drugs
  • Report shortness of breath, chest pain, severe rash, bleeding, or wound-healing issues

Ask PharmPal Nurse

Your AI tutor for Targeted Cancer Therapy

Ask me anything about this drug class.

Disclaimer: PharmPal Nurse is for education only and is not medical advice. Do not use it to diagnose, treat, prescribe, or make patient-care decisions; always verify with current drug references, your instructor, facility policy, and a licensed provider. In emergencies, call local emergency services.