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DeutschSmart drugs, which open a new chapter in cancer treatment, are a new generation treatment method that targets tumor cells, unlike chemotherapy. Known in the medical world as “targeted therapy,” this method aims to block the molecular pathways and proteins that allow cancer cells to grow, divide, and spread. This way, the damage to healthy cells is minimized, and the effectiveness of the treatment is increased.
What is Smart Drug Therapy and How Does it Work?
Smart drug therapy functions by attacking specific molecular targets that allow cancer cells to grow and spread. These drugs target only the characteristic features of cancer cells without damaging normal cells. Thus, common side effects seen in chemotherapy are minimized, and the treatment becomes more effective and targeted.
The Working Principle of Smart Drugs
Smart drugs work by targeting genes or proteins specific to cancer cells. These drugs function by blocking signaling pathways critical for the survival, growth, and replication of tumor cells or by directly delivering toxic substances to these cells. Smart drugs are typically divided into two main groups:
- Monoclonal Antibodies: These are large compounds that bind to specific targets on the surface of cancer cells. These antibodies can block the growth of tumor cells or directly deliver toxic components such as chemotherapy drugs or radioactive substances to the cancer cells. These drugs are typically administered intravenously (by injection).
- Small Molecule Inhibitors: These are small chemical compounds that enter cancer cells and block the molecular targets necessary for growth and spread. These drugs are typically taken orally in pill form.
What is the Difference from Chemotherapy?
While traditional chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing tumor cells, it can unfortunately also harm rapidly dividing healthy cells. This leads to the systemic toxicity and side effects associated with chemotherapy. In contrast, smart drugs target only the distinguishing features of cancer cells, minimizing damage to healthy tissues and causing fewer side effects.
What are Smart Drugs in Cancer Treatment? In Which Cases are They Used?
Smart drugs are personalized treatments that act on specific molecular targets that are not suitable for every type of cancer. Therefore, whether a patient will benefit from smart drug therapy is determined by analyzing the genetic makeup of their tumor. This section will detail in which diseases and stages smart drugs are used in cancer treatment, the patient profile suitable for treatment, and how this decision is made.
In Which Stages of Cancer is Smart Drug Therapy Used?
Smart drugs are generally used in advanced stages of cancer or in cases that do not respond to standard treatments, but in some cases, they may also be used as first-line treatment. For example, Herceptin (trastuzumab) can be used as a first-line treatment in metastatic breast cancer with overexpression of the HER2/neu gene. Gleevec (imatinib), used in chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), provides the most effective results in the early chronic phase of the disease. These treatments can generally be used alongside chemotherapy and other methods.
Patient Profile Suitable for Targeted Therapy
One of the most important features of smart drugs is that they are not suitable for every patient. The effectiveness of this treatment depends on the genetic makeup of the tumor cells. Therefore, before starting treatment, specific genetic tests are performed on the patient’s tumor tissue. For example, Gleevec treatment is effective only in patients whose tumor cells carry the Bcr-Abl protein or a genetic abnormality known as the Philadelphia chromosome. Similarly, Herceptin is used only in breast cancer patients with HER2/neu gene amplification.
How Are Smart Drugs Used? Administration Methods
Smart drugs are administered in different ways according to their active ingredients, mechanisms of action, and molecular structures. This section will discuss the different administration methods of smart drugs and the importance of monitoring and adjusting doses during the treatment process.
Oral and Injection Forms
Smart drugs are applied in different ways according to their active ingredients and mechanisms of action.
- Oral forms: Small molecule inhibitors such as Gleevec and Iressa are typically taken by the patient at home in pill form.
- Injection forms: Monoclonal antibodies like Herceptin, which are large compounds, are usually administered intravenously (IV) at a healthcare facility.
Monitoring During Treatment and Dose Adjustments
In smart drug therapy, regular follow-up visits and tests are crucial to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and any side effects. Dose adjustments may be made by the doctor based on the patient’s response to the treatment and their tolerance. For example, in a study of an antibody-enzyme conjugate treatment, it was stated that the drug could be safely applied 7 days later to prevent systemic toxicity.
How Long is Smart Drug Therapy Used?
The duration of smart drug therapy depends on the type and stage of cancer, the patient’s overall health, and the effectiveness of the treatment.
How Many Months is Smart Drug Therapy Used?
In some cases, treatment can last for months or even years. For example, in a study with Gleevec, it was observed that the hematologic response lasted up to 18 months in the majority of patients. The most accurate information regarding the use of smart drugs will be provided by the oncologist who determines the patient’s treatment plan.
What are the Side Effects of Smart Drugs?
Smart drugs have fewer side effects compared to chemotherapy, but they are not completely free of side effects.
Common Side Effects and Patient-Specific Reactions
The aim of targeted therapy is to minimize the damage to normal tissues. However, in some cases, side effects such as immunogenic reactions may occur. These side effects can arise when the protein targeted by the drug is also present in healthy cells or when the drug affects other molecular pathways.
How are Smart Drug Side Effects Managed in Cancer?
Side effects that arise during treatment are managed with appropriate supportive therapies under the supervision of a doctor. Regular monitoring makes it easier to diagnose side effects early and ensure the best possible adherence to the treatment. It is critical for patients to stay in contact with their doctor and healthcare team during this process.
Who Should Receive Smart Drugs? Eligibility Criteria
Patient Groups Determined by Genetic Testing
The primary eligibility criterion for smart drug therapy is the presence of a specific genetic abnormality in the tumor cells. This abnormality is determined by genetic tests, immunohistochemistry, or methods such as FISH (fluorescence in situ hybridization). In cancer treatment, smart drugs are given to patients with HER2/neu gene overexpression in breast cancer (for Herceptin) and those with Philadelphia chromosome-positive CML (for Gleevec).
How is the Treatment Decision Made?
The decision to start smart drug therapy is made by a multidisciplinary oncology team, taking into account the patient’s genetic test results, type of cancer, stage, and overall health. This decision is a fully personalized process.
Smart Drug Names and Their Areas of Use
Most Common Smart Drugs (with Examples)
- Herceptin (Trastuzumab): HER2/neu-positive breast cancer
- Gleevec (Imatinib): Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) and gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST)
- Iressa (Gefitinib): EGFR-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
- Tarceva (Erlotinib): EGFR-positive non-small cell lung cancer and pancreatic cancer
Cellular Structure and Mechanism Targeted by Each Drug
- Herceptin: Targets the HER2/neu protein on the surface of breast cancer cells, preventing the progression of the cell cycle.
- Gleevec: Blocks the Bcr-Abl tyrosine kinase enzyme, which causes CML, and stops signals that promote cell proliferation.
- Iressa and Tarceva: Target the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), preventing cell growth and spread.
Smart Drug Prices and Reimbursement Process
Smart drug prices and reimbursement coverage vary depending on the drug, patient profile, and country. In Turkey, whether smart drugs are covered by the government or what the SGK coverage is, is determined by the periodically updated Health Practice Communique (SUT). To get the most up-to-date and accurate information, patients and their families should first consult an oncologist or pharmacist, and then consult the relevant social security institutions or private insurance companies. The cost of the treatment process in private hospitals may also vary depending on the hospital policies, drug, and treatment duration.
Important Considerations in Smart Drug Therapy
Regular Monitoring, Side Effect Tracking, and Medication Adherence
The success of smart drug therapy depends on regular doctor visits and patient adherence. Patients must attend all recommended appointments and take their medications as prescribed to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and any potential side effects.
Informing the Patient and Their Family
Smart drug therapy is an important process for the patient and their family. During this process, it is crucial that the patient and their family are fully informed about the treatment process, potential side effects, and important considerations. This increases trust in the treatment and adherence to it.
For Detailed Information on Smart Drug Therapy, Contact Our Expert
At Qba Medi Tours, we are an official health consultancy firm approved by both the Cuban Ministry of Health and the Turkish Ministry of Health. We ensure that patients can safely access the most up-to-date and effective cancer treatments in Cuba. By communicating directly with Cuban specialist doctors, we ensure the evaluation of patients’ reports and the creation of the most appropriate treatment plan. For more information about smart drug therapy and to receive consultancy services that will accompany you throughout this process, feel free to contact us.
