metastatic breast cancer treatment drugs

Release time ：Nov-08,2024

The treatment medications for metastatic breast cancer generally encompass chemotherapy agents, hormonal therapy drugs, targeted therapies, and immunotherapeutic agents. The choice of these medications is contingent upon the patient's disease profile, the tumor's type and molecular characteristics, as well as the patient's overall health condition.

Chemotherapy agents are among the most frequently used in treating metastatic breast cancer; they control cancer progression by targeting rapidly dividing cells. However, these agents can also inflict damage on healthy cells, potentially leading to side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and hair loss. Hormonal therapy drugs are primarily utilized for patients with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, functioning by blocking estrogen's effects or reducing estrogen levels in the body to inhibit tumor growth. While these drugs are generally less aggressive, prolonged use could result in the development of resistance. Furthermore, targeted therapy drugs focus on specific molecules present on the surface of tumor cells, thereby minimizing harm to healthy cells. For instance, patients with HER2-positive breast cancer may undergo targeted therapy directed against the HER2 protein. Lastly, immunotherapeutic agents stimulate the patient's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells, demonstrating efficacy in certain types of breast cancer.

For individuals with metastatic breast cancer, it is crucial to adhere to a standardized treatment regimen under a physician's supervision. Patients should comply with medical instructions, engage in regular follow-ups and monitoring to ensure the treatment's efficacy and safety. Additionally, maintaining healthy lifestyle practices, such as a balanced diet, moderate physical activity, and a positive mental attitude, can significantly enhance the quality of life.