Educational information only — not a diagnosis or treatment recommendation.
Content last checked: Jul 15, 2026·Sources & review
Targeted Therapy
What is this treatment?
Drug treatments directed at specific molecular alterations that help drive tumor growth.
When doctors consider it
Considered after molecular profiling identifies an actionable alteration matched to an available therapy or trial.
Potential advantages
- Can be highly effective when a matching alteration is present
- Often oral and given outpatient
- May delay or reduce need for broader cytotoxic therapy in some settings
Limitations
- Requires timely, adequate molecular testing
- Resistance can develop over time
- Access to matched drugs or trials varies by region
Questions to discuss with doctors
- Was comprehensive molecular testing completed?
- Are there resistance patterns we should anticipate?
- Is a clinical trial a better match than standard targeted options?
Countries offering this option
- United States
- China
Cost considerations
Testing costs plus long-term drug pricing and monitoring labs are major drivers.