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[Unique adverse effects of molecular targeted drugs]
Abstract:
Molecular targeted drugs have been developed to act principally on specific molecules expressed on either cancer cells or normal surrounding cells in cancerous tissues. Ideally, expressions of these targeted molecules are markedly increased in cancerous tissues as compared with normal tissue. This class of drugs has been expected to have superior antitumor effects without any toxicities. Over the last decade, however, the introduction of molecular targeted drugs into clinical setting revealed unexpected, occasionally lethal, "off-targeted" adverse effects which were different from the toxic profiles of cytotoxic drugs. In this review, the adverse effects of molecular targeted drugs, the managements of these toxicities and the molecular mechanism underlying of these toxicities are reviewed.
Insights
Molecular targeted drugs show promise but can cause unexpected toxicities. This review covers adverse effects, management strategies, and underlying mechanisms of these targeted cancer therapies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Molecular Biology
Context:
- Molecular targeted drugs are designed to target specific molecules in cancer cells or surrounding tissues.
- Ideally, these drugs offer superior antitumor effects with minimal toxicity compared to traditional chemotherapy.
Purpose:
- To review the adverse effects of molecular targeted drugs.
- To discuss the management of these toxicities.
- To explore the molecular mechanisms behind these adverse effects.
Summary:
- Despite their targeted nature, molecular targeted drugs can cause unexpected "off-targeted" adverse effects.
- These toxicities differ from those seen with cytotoxic drugs and can occasionally be lethal.
- The review details the spectrum of adverse events, their clinical management, and their molecular basis.
Impact:
- Provides a comprehensive overview of the safety profiles of molecular targeted drugs.
- Offers guidance for clinicians in managing drug-induced toxicities.
- Contributes to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of targeted therapy side effects.
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