About the Treatment Method
Effect and Application of the Treatment
No. For a smart drug to work, the "target" onto which that drug locks (for example, specific gene mutations like EGFR, ALK, HER2, BRAF) must be present in the tumor. Therefore, before starting a patient on a smart drug, a detailed "Genetic / Molecular Analysis" must be performed on a sample taken from the tumor to determine whether the target is present.
Chemotherapy stops cell division; thus, it also damages rapidly dividing healthy cells like hair follicles and stomach lining, causing hair loss and severe nausea. Smart drugs, on the other hand, collapse the cancer cell from the inside by cutting off its signaling pathways. Therefore, they do not cause hair loss; however, they may have different side effects such as specific skin rashes or blood pressure issues.
One of the biggest advantages of smart drugs is that many are in "pill (tablet)" form. The patient can continue their treatment by taking a pill at home under a doctor's supervision, without having to come to the hospital or chemotherapy unit every day. Some types are administered intravenously (via an IV).
The information on this page is for general health advice. Please consult specialized physicians for personalized treatment or advice.
