An abnormal growth in the lining of the bladder is known as bladder cancer. The treatment of bladder cancer depends on its stage and the progression of the condition. Since the treatment for cancer is quite challenging, doctors are constantly looking for treatments and evaluating the current medicines.
Discussing medicines, therapies, and the various treatment options with the doctor is the best way to understand the purpose of it and its possible side effects. Moreover, it is essential for patients to discuss any allergies, on-going treatments, or medicines so that side effects can be prevented. Medicines can sometimes interact with certain supplements and herbs, causing severe ill effects.
Medications used to destroy cancerous cells are known as systemic therapy. These medications are administered through the bloodstream so that it attacks the cancerous cells through the entire body. A doctor who specializes in the treatment of cancer via medication is an oncologist; they usually prescribe systemic therapies.
The affected person may sometimes get one type of systemic therapy or a combination of therapies at the same time.
Types of systemic therapies include the following:
1. Chemotherapy
If a person is given chemotherapy, the medications used to destroy the cancerous cells mostly restrict the growth of cancerous cells, which are then divided, creating more cells. The schedule of the chemotherapy typically consists of a certain number of cycles over a particular period. For the treatment of bladder cancer, two types of chemotherapy may be used. The type of chemotherapy recommended would depend on the stage of cancer.
2. Biological therapy
Biological therapy, also known as immunotherapy, is designed to boost the natural defenses of the body to tackle cancer. To restore or target the functioning of the immune system, immunotherapy makes use of the materials made in a laboratory or by the body.
3. Targeted therapy
Targeted therapy treats cancer by targeting cancer tissues, proteins, or genes that would contribute to the survival and growth of the cancer. In this type of treatment, the spread and growth of the cancerous cells get blocked. This helps to minimize the damage that can be caused to healthy cells. There are many targeted therapies for the treatment of bladder cancer, one of which is erdafitinib. This is administered orally and is approved for the treatment for locally advanced or genetic mutations after they have been given platinum chemotherapy. There is a certain companion test that is approved by the FDA to determine how it would help an individual and at what stage.
The doctor needs to discuss all the possible side effects of any treatment they recommend relating to bladder cancer.
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