Top 6 FDA-Approved Drugs for Lung Cancer Treatment
Discover the top 6 FDA-approved medications for lung cancer treatment, including targeted therapies like Xalkori, Tagrisso, and Alecensa. Learn about their functions, benefits, and usage in managing non-small cell lung cancer, with important considerations for patients and healthcare providers. Always seek professional medical guidance for diagnosis and treatment options.
Top 6 FDA-Approved Medications for Lung Cancer Therapy
As a leading cause of cancer-related fatalities, lung cancer accounts for more deaths annually than prostate, colon, breast, and ovarian cancers combined. It originates in the lungs and can metastasize to other regions depending on the stage. Risk factors include smoking, passive exposure to tobacco smoke, radon, asbestos, and genetic predispositions. Symptoms such as persistent coughing, blood in sputum, shortness of breath, chest pain, weight loss, bone pain, and headaches often signal the disease. Treatments incorporate surgery and targeted medications approved by the FDA, prescribed under medical supervision.
Xalkori: Also known as crizotinib, this drug is approved for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), especially those with ROS1-positive tumors. It functions as a targeted therapy inhibitor, disrupting cancer cell growth.
Tagrisso: Known as osimertinib, Tagrisso inhibits tyrosine kinases involved in cell proliferation, effectively controlling NSCLC spread.
Alecensa: This medication, or alectinib, targets ALK-positive metastatic NSCLC by blocking the ALK gene product, reducing tumor growth and promoting cancer cell death.
Gilotrif: Also called Afatinib, Gilotrif inhibits tyrosine kinases EGFR and HER2, slowing disease progression with fewer side effects.
Iressa: Gefitinib, Iressa is used for NSCLC with specific EGFR mutations, primarily when the cancer has spread, inhibiting proteins that promote tumor growth.
Alimta: A folate analog used in combination with chemotherapy, Alimta targets non-small cell lung cancer at the metabolic level.
Reminder: The information provided is only for educational purposes. Always consult healthcare professionals before starting any treatment. Proper diagnosis and personalized advice are essential for effective cancer management.
