Biologic and targeted therapy: what to know

Biologic therapy is a broad label for medicines made from living systems or designed to affect biological processes. It can include some antibodies and treatments that change immune activity. Targeted therapy is defined by what it acts on: a protein, gene change or signalling pathway that helps cancer cells grow or survive.

The labels can overlap, so the name alone does not reveal how a medicine works. Testing a tumour, blood or bone marrow sample may show whether a relevant target is present. A suitable target can support use of a medicine, while its absence may point the team toward another option. Treatment may be given as tablets, capsules or an infusion and may be combined with chemotherapy, radiotherapy or another targeted medicine.

Ask for the exact medicine name, its target, the goal of treatment and how response will be checked. Give the oncology team a complete list of prescription medicines, supplements and herbal products because interactions can change drug levels or side effects. Tell them about heart, liver or kidney problems, infections, planned dental work, pregnancy or breastfeeding before treatment starts.

Follow instructions for tablets carefully, including whether to take them with food and what to do after a missed dose or vomiting. Do not double a dose unless the treatment team specifically directs you. Keep a record of new symptoms, take supportive medicines as prescribed and attend planned blood tests, blood-pressure checks and scans.

Use the oncology service's urgent contact route for fever, chills, a rapidly worsening rash, persistent diarrhoea or vomiting, unusual bleeding, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or severe mouth sores that stop you drinking. Seek emergency help for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, chest pain, fainting, confusion or sudden weakness. These symptoms need assessment based on their severity, not on how commonly they occur.

Ask which test identified the target, whether the medicine is intended to control the cancer or reduce the chance of it returning, and which results would lead to a dose change or treatment switch. Also clarify who to call outside clinic hours, which vaccinations are suitable, and whether surgery or dental procedures require a temporary treatment pause.