Published with the inputs from Dr Muhammed Rifayi V, Medical Oncologist, Baby Memorial Hospitals- Kozhikode
Targeted therapy is a form of cancer treatment that uses specialized drugs designed to target specific genes, proteins, or pathways involved in cancer growth and spread. Unlike chemotherapy, which affects both cancerous and healthy cells, targeted therapy focuses only on the abnormal cancer cells, making it more precise, effective, and often better tolerated.
Targeted therapy is a type of cancer treatment that blocks the growth and spread of cancer by interfering with specific molecules (known as “molecular targets”) that are involved in tumor development and progression.
Targeted therapy works in several ways, such as:
Targeted therapy is used in many cancers, including:
Doctors use genetic testing (molecular profiling) to determine if a patient’s cancer is likely to respond to targeted drugs.
| Feature | Chemotherapy | Targeted Therapy |
| Mechanism | Kills rapidly dividing cells (including healthy ones) | Acts on specific cancer cell genes or proteins |
| Side Effects | Hair loss, nausea, low blood counts | Usually milder (skin rash, fatigue, diarrhea) |
| Precision | Non-specific | Personalized, based on tumor biology |
Yes. Targeted therapy has shown excellent results in many cancers by shrinking tumors, controlling disease, and prolonging survival — especially when used in combination with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiation therapy.
Side effects vary depending on the drug but may include:
Most side effects are manageable with medical supervision and supportive care.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, the Oncology Team at Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH) offers advanced targeted therapy guided by molecular and genetic profiling — providing personalized, effective, and compassionate cancer care.
👉 Book an Appointment Online or visit BMH to consult our medical oncology specialists.