Targeted therapy as a precision cancer treatment

Targeted therapy is a modern treatment for cancer that is focused on specific genes, proteins, and pathways that are involved in the growth and survival of cancer. Targeted therapy differs from standard chemotherapy, as chemotherapy kills cancerous and healthy cells which are rapidly dividing, while targeted therapy aims only at the cancer’s specific weakness so it is a type of precision medicine.

How it Works

  • It identifies mutations or molecular changes in cancer cells.
  • It uses drugs that specifically block those changes to stop the cancer cells from growing or spreading.
  • Compared to standard chemotherapy, targeted therapy has less damage to normal, healthy cells.

Examples of Targeted Therapies

  • Tyrosine Kinase inhibitors (TKIs): These block signals that tell cancer cells to grow, such as imatinib.
  • Monoclonal antibodies: These attach to specific proteins on cancer cell to either stop the cells from growing or deliver toxic agents.
  • Angiogenesis inhibitors: These prevent the formation of new blood vessels to supply the tumor.

Who Needs Targeted Therapy?

Not everyone is suited for targeted therapy– targeted therapy is used only if specific gene mutations or protein alterations are present in the cancer cells. Doctors would utilize special tests (like molecular profiling or genetic testing) on the tumor sample to find out if a patient is eligible.

For example:

  • HER2–positive breast cancer – Targeted drugs block the HER2 protein that drives cancer growth.
  • EGFR mutations in lung cancer – Medications can block abnormal signals from EGFR that help tumors grow.
  • ALK or ROS1 rearrangements in lung cancer – Targeted drugs can target those rare but notable mutations.
  • BRAF mutations in melanoma or colon cancer – Inhibitors can be used to block the faulty BRAF protein.
  • VEGF/VEGFR pathways – Some drugs can stop the blood supply that tumors need to grow.

Targeted therapy is useful when the cancer has a known mutation that can be “matched” to a drug that stops it.

Types of Targeted Therapies Used in India

Targeted treats cancer cells in various ways, depending on how the targeted agent works. Let us discuss two of the most common types:

  1.  Small Molecule Inhibitors

    • Medications taken in an oral form (tablets or capsules)

    • Molecules are small enough to enter the cancer cells and block specific proteins or signals that help the cancer survive and grow.

    • Common examples:

      • EGFR inhibitors (a common treatment for lung cancer)

      • BCR-ABL inhibitors (a common treatment for chronic myeloid leukemia)

      • BRAF inhibitors (a common treatment for melanoma and colon cancer)

    • Often administered daily, and effectiveness can be assessed by testing every few months.

  2. Monoclonal Antibodies (mAbs)

    • Laboratory generated antibodies that are delivered as IV (intravenous) infusions.

    • mAbs will attach to specific proteins on and around cancer cells.

    • The mAbs either block the cancer cells from growing (and dividing), help to recruit the immune system to the cancer, and/or block the tumor from developing a new blood supply.

    • Common examples:

      • Trastuzumab for HER2-positive breast cancers

      • Rituximab for some cancers of the blood.

      • Bevacizumab to block blood supply to tumors.

Targeted Therapy vs. Chemotherapy: Which Is Best?

Both targeted therapy and chemotherapy are critical components of cancer treatment. The choice depends on the type of cancer, the stage of the cancer, and the genetic profile of that particular patient.

  1. Mechanism of Action
    Chemotherapy: Kills all fast-growing cells (including cancer cells, along with some fast-growing healthy cells such as hair, gut lining, and bone marrow).

    Targeted Therapy: Targets only specific genetic changes or proteins in cancer cells- most normal cells are spared!

  2. Side Effects
    Chemotherapy: hair loss, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, low immunity, mouth sores.

    Targeted Therapy: Typically milder compared to chemotherapy – rash, diarrhea, high blood pressure, liver changes. Hair loss is rare.

  3. Effectiveness
    Chemotherapy: Works in the broadest sense and treats several types of cancers– generally if a specific mutation cannot be identified by the oncologist.

    Targeted Therapy: Typically more effective if the patient’s cancer is active and/or “grows” off the target mutation (HER2+, EGFR etc). If the cancer does not have the target mutation(s), targeted therapy will not do anything for that cancer.

  4. Delivery
    Chemotherapy: Typically IV (or oral pills).

    Targeted Therapy: Oral pills (small molecules) or IV (monoclonal antibodies).

     

  5. Personalization
    Chemotherapy: One size fits all approach.

    Targeted Therapy: Personalised treatment based upon genetic testing of the tumor sample.

Which is better?

  • If your cancer contains a known mutation, targeted therapy is often more specific, with possibly less toxicity.
  • If no target can be identified or if the cancer is aggressive, chemotherapy may need to be your initial therapy.
  • In many instances both options are merged together for maximum advantage.

Cost of Targeted Therapy in Ahmedabad

Targeted therapy generally costs anywhere from ₹1,82,000 to ₹2,27,500 per cycle; when given alone, it may be approximately ₹1,09,200, although this will vary depending on the various particulars.

In broad terms, targeted therapy is usually priced anywhere from ₹1,80,000 to ₹3,50,000 per cycle in India, with Ahmedabad-based estimations usually falling baseline on around ₹2,10,000 to ₹3,01,000 per cycle.

A full cost summary for targeted therapy across India gives this breakdown:

Drug costs: ₹100,000 – ₹3,50,000 / per cycle

Diagnostics and genetic tests: ₹10,000 – ₹50,000

Infusion costs: ₹5000 – ₹15,000

Monitoring and follow-ups: ₹5000 – ₹20,000

Side effect support: ₹5000 – ₹25,000

Conclusion

Targeted therapy in Ahmedabad costs on balance around ₹1.8 lakh to ₹2.3 lakh per cycle, and sometimes as low as ₹1.1 lakh, dependent on complexity of the scenario, choice of drug, and the diagnostic tests you need. When thinking about the treatment possibility, be sure to add on costs associated with testing, monitoring and supportive care.

Where to Get Targeted Therapy in Ahmedabad

Here is a list of a few reputed hospitals in Ahmedabad where targeted therapy is included in their Cancer Care Services:

  1. Medisquare Superspeciality Hospital & Research Institute
    Address: O-201, 202, Gala Empire, Drive In Road, Opposite Doordarshan Tower, Gurukul, Ahmedabad – 380052

    Oncologist: Dr. Ekta Vala Chandarana

    Services offered: Offers personalized cancer treatment including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapy.
    Contact info: For appointments call – 08866843843

  2. HCG Aastha Cancer Centre
    Address: Sola, Ahmedabad

    Services offered: Provides targeted therapy, high dose chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and immunotherapy solutions.

    Website: hcgoncology.com

  3. Marengo CIMS Cancer Centre
    Address:  Ahmedabad


    Services offered    : Systemic treatment for cancers includes chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, hormonal therapy.
    Website: cims.org.

  4. Sterling Hospitals (Sindhu Bhavan)
    Address: Ahmedabad


    Services offered    : Precision based targeted therapies that have minimal damage to healthy cells.
    Website: sterlinghospitals.com

  5. Gujarat Cancer & Research Institute (GCRI)
    Address: Ahmedabad


    Services offered    : A regionally funded, government cancer centre that offers quality care for cancer patients, including systemic treatment options like targeted therapy.

Targeted vs Chemotherapy vs Immunotherapy
Treatment TypeTargeted TherapyChemotherapyImmunotherapy
What it isBlocks specific molecules or genes in cancer cellsKills all fast-growing cellsBoosts the immune system to fight cancer
How it worksStops cancer growth by targeting key proteinsAttacks both cancer and healthy cellsHelps the immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells
Used forCancers with known mutations like lung or breast cancerMany cancer types at different stagesAdvanced cancers like melanoma or lung cancer
Side effectsFewer, like skin issues or fatigueMore, like hair loss and nauseaImmune-related issues like fever or inflammation
DurationLong-term, based on responseGiven in cycles over weeks or monthsOngoing treatment, varies by patient
Who should use itWhen genetic testing shows specific targetsWhen aggressive treatment is neededWhen other treatments are less effective
MonitoringGenetic tests and scansRegular blood testsImmune system monitoring
Where to consultExpert oncologist after biomarker testingGeneral cancer centersSpecialized centers with immune therapy expertise

Side Effects

Chemotherapy is effective in targeting rapidly proliferating cancer cells. It can affect healthy cells as well, thereby leading to various side effects. The most frequently encountered side effects include:

Fatigue – Which is defined as being overly tired or weak; this can last days or weeks.

Hair Loss (Alopecia) – Temporary thinning or complete loss of the hair on the scalp as well as other bodily areas.

Nausea and Vomiting – These can vary from mild to severe; primarily will be controlled with anti-nausea medications.

Low Blood Counts (Myelosuppression) – Can lead to an increased risk of infection, anemia, and bruising easily.

Mouth Sores and Irritation of the throat – Signs may include painful mouth sores that make it difficult to eat or swallow.

Diarrhea or Constipation – The digestive system is usually affected.

Appetite Loss and Weight Changes – These may happen as a result of nausea, changes in taste or fatigue.

Skin and Nail Changes – Signs may include dryness of skin, rash, or change in color of nails.

Fertility issues – These may be temporary or permanent.

Cognitive changes – Sometimes referred to as “Chemo Brain” or “chemo fog” can be frustrating itself because one may have difficulty concentrating, memory loss or just feel as if their brain is moving slower.

Management Tips:

Fatigue: Rest, mild exercise, and eat a nutritious diet.

Hair loss: Consider using wigs that are soft, scarves or hats; sometimes scalp cooling may be helpful.

Nausea: Take anti-nausea drugs that have been prescribed and eat smaller, more frequent meals.

Low blood counts: Have your blood counts checked on a regular basis; if an infection is suspected, see your doctor right away; be aware that you may need blood transfusions during your treatment.

Mouth sores: Make sure you practice good oral hygiene; and use mouth rinses that your doctor recommends.

Book a genetic screening or consultation

FAQs

Targeted therapy works by blocking specific molecules (genes or proteins) that cancer cells need to grow and survive. Unlike chemotherapy, which attacks both healthy and cancer cells, targeted therapy is designed to focus mainly on cancer cells. This makes it a more precise form of cancer treatment in many cases.
Read more

Neither treatment is “better” in every situation, it depends on the cancer type and stage. For some cancers, targeted therapy offers fewer side effects and better outcomes. In others, chemotherapy may still be the most effective option. Often, oncologists use both therapies together to get the best results.
Read more

The cost of targeted therapy in Ahmedabad depends on the drug, dosage, and treatment plan. Some oral targeted drugs may cost a few thousand rupees per month, while advanced therapies can cost several lakhs per cycle. Since the cost can vary widely, it is best to ask your oncologist for an exact estimate based on your cancer type and recommended medicine.
Read more

Eligibility for targeted therapy is usually decided through genetic or biomarker testing. These tests help identify whether your cancer carries specific mutations that targeted drugs can act on. Not all patients qualify, so testing is an important first step. 
Read more

Yes, targeted therapy does have side effects, though they are often different from chemotherapy. Common ones include:

  • Diarrhea
  • High blood pressure
  • Skin changes (rash, dryness)
  • Fatigue
  • Mouth sores

Most side effects can be managed with supportive medicines and regular monitoring.
Read more

It depends on the treatment plan. Sometimes targeted therapy is given alone, especially in cancers where the mutation is strongly responsive. In other cases, it is combined with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiation to improve results.
Read more

Targeted therapy is most effective in cancers where specific mutations are identified, such as:

  • Non-small cell lung cancer
  • Breast cancer (HER2-positive)
  • Colorectal cancer
  • Kidney cancer
  • Certain blood cancers (like CML)

Research is ongoing, and the list of cancers treatable with targeted therapy is growing every year.
Read more

Success rates vary. In cancers with the right genetic changes, targeted therapy can significantly improve survival and quality of life. However, cancer cells may develop resistance over time, which is why oncologists often combine treatments or switch drugs when needed.
Read more

Some targeted therapies are taken daily as oral tablets, while others are given through IV infusions every few weeks. The frequency depends on the specific drug and the treatment plan your oncologist prescribes.
Read more

Yes, in most cases. Genetic or biomarker testing is essential to determine whether your cancer has mutations that targeted therapy can act on. Without this testing, doctors cannot confirm if the treatment will work for you.
Read more