This article highlights six FDA-approved drugs for lung cancer treatment, emphasizing their functions and targeted therapy roles. It offers insights into current treatment options, helping patients and medical professionals make informed decisions. The medications target various genetic markers and stages of lung cancer, showcasing advances in targeted therapy. Always seek professional medical advice for treatment options and diagnosis.

Essential FDA-Approved Drugs for Lung Cancer Treatment

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, surpassing prostate, colon, breast, and ovarian cancers combined. It originates within the lungs and may spread to other areas as the disease progresses. Risk factors include cigarette smoking, exposure to secondhand smoke, radon, asbestos, and genetic susceptibility. Common symptoms involve chronic cough, blood in sputum, difficulty breathing, chest discomfort, weight loss, bone pain, and headaches. Approved treatments often involve surgical procedures and targeted medications prescribed by healthcare providers under strict medical guidance.

Xalkori: Also called crizotinib, this medication is approved for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), particularly ROS1-positive tumors. It acts as a targeted therapy that inhibits cancer cell growth.

Tagrisso: Known as osimertinib, Tagrisso blocks tyrosine kinases involved in tumor proliferation, effectively managing NSCLC progression.

Alecensa: This drug, or alectinib, is used for ALK-positive metastatic NSCLC, targeting the ALK gene product to reduce tumor growth and induce cancer cell death.

Gilotrif: Also called Afatinib, Gilotrif inhibits EGFR and HER2 tyrosine kinases, slowing disease advancement with fewer side effects.

Iressa: Gefitinib, marketed as Iressa, addresses NSCLC with specific EGFR mutations, mainly when the cancer has spread, by inhibiting growth-promoting proteins.

Alimta: This folate analog is used alongside chemotherapy to target non-small cell lung cancer at a metabolic level.

Note: The details provided are for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for diagnosis and personalized treatment plans. Proper medical guidance is vital for effective cancer management.