Treatments for Lung Cancer
Lung cancer can be a serious and challenging disease, but there are treatments that help patients manage it, like Imfinzi (durvalumab), an immunotherapy drug used to treat certain types of lung cancer.
Imfinzi (Durvalumab)
Imfinzi is an immunotherapy medicine. Immunotherapy helps boost the body's natural defenses to fight cancer. Imfinzi is often used for people with a type of lung cancer called non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It's typically given to patients whose cancer hasn’t grown but isn’t completely gone after chemoradiation (a mix of chemotherapy and radiation). Imfinzi helps keep cancer from growing back and may improve survival in some patients.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a common treatment for lung cancer that uses powerful drugs to destroy cancer cells. It can be used on its own, before or after surgery or combined with other treatments. Chemotherapy is usually given through an IV, allowing the medicine to travel through the bloodstream to target cancer cells all over the body.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It is often used when the cancer is in one part of the lung or if the tumor is pressing on nearby areas. Radiation can be done alone, with chemotherapy or as a follow-up to surgery. Side effects can include fatigue and skin changes, but these often improve after treatment.
Surgery
Surgery is sometimes an option, especially when cancer is detected early. During surgery, a doctor may remove a part of the lung where the tumor is located, or even the entire lung, depending on how much cancer has spread. After surgery, some patients may need chemotherapy or radiation to prevent cancer from coming back.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy is designed to focus on specific genes or proteins that help cancer grow. Doctors test the cancer cells to see if they have certain changes (mutations) that targeted therapies can block. These drugs work differently from chemotherapy and often have fewer side effects. They’re generally used for patients with advanced lung cancer or when other treatments aren’t effective.
Immunotherapy (Other Than Imfinzi)
Besides Imfinzi, there are other immunotherapy options that can help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. These include drugs like Keytruda and Opdivo. They’re usually given through an IV and can be especially helpful for patients whose cancer has returned or spread. Immunotherapy drugs tend to work well in certain patients, particularly those with advanced stages of cancer.
Palliative Care
Palliative care is a form of support for patients at any stage of cancer. It doesn’t treat cancer directly but helps manage symptoms like pain, shortness of breath or fatigue. Palliative care is important in improving quality of life and can be provided alongside other treatments.
Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are research studies that explore new treatments. Some patients may choose to participate in these trials to access newer therapies that aren’t widely available yet. These treatments may include new types of drugs, combinations of treatments or even new procedures.
Exploring Modern Treatments for Lung Cancer
Lung cancer treatment can involve one or a combination of these therapies. Talking to a doctor about the best options is essential. The right treatment plan can help patients manage symptoms, reduce cancer growth and improve their quality of life.