Targeted Therapy
for Breast Cancer
What Is Targeted Therapy?
Targeted therapy uses medicines that focus on specific features of cancer cells, such as proteins or genetic changes, to block their growth and survival.
Unlike chemotherapy, these drugs act precisely on the cancer cell’s abnormal pathways, reducing harm to normal cells and improving effectiveness.
At Breast & Wellness, targeted therapies are prescribed based on the tumour’s molecular profile, ensuring each patient receives the most appropriate, evidence-based treatment.
When Is Targeted Therapy Used?
Targeted therapy may be used:
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After surgery (adjuvant therapy) to reduce the risk of recurrence.
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Before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy) to shrink the tumour.
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For advanced or metastatic breast cancer to control disease and extend life expectancy.
It is commonly used for HER2-positive and some ER-positive breast cancers, and for tumours with inherited BRCA1/2 mutations.
Common Targeted Therapies
HER2-Targeted Therapies
Around 20 % of breast cancers overexpress a protein called HER2. Targeted drugs for HER2-positive cancers include:
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Trastuzumab (Herceptin®) – blocks HER2 receptors and flags the cell for immune attack.
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Pertuzumab (Perjeta®) – works with trastuzumab to provide dual HER2 blockade.
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Trastuzumab deruxtecan (Enhertu®) – combines trastuzumab with chemotherapy for resistant or recurrent disease.
These are given by intravenous infusion, usually once every three weeks for up to one year.
Hormone-Positive Targeted Therapies (CDK4/6 inhibitors)
Used in ER-positive breast cancer, these tablets stop cancer cells from dividing.
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Abemaciclib (Verzenio®)
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Palbociclib (Ibrance®)
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Ribociclib (Kisqali®)
They are taken daily for several months, often with hormone-blocking therapy such as letrozole or tamoxifen.
Genetic-Based Targeted Therapies (PARP inhibitors)
Women with inherited BRCA1/2 mutations may benefit from drugs that block DNA repair in cancer cells:
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Olaparib (Lynparza®)
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Talazoparib (Talzenna®)
These are taken as daily tablets for advanced or high-risk cancers.
Possible Side Effects
Targeted therapies are generally well tolerated, but can cause:
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Mild fatigue or diarrhoea
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Skin rash or nail changes
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Low blood counts (especially with CDK4/6 inhibitors)
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Rarely, heart-function changes with trastuzumab (monitored by echocardiogram)
Most effects are temporary and manageable under close supervision.
Monitoring and Follow-Up
During therapy you will have:
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Regular blood tests to check blood counts and liver function
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Echocardiograms (heart scans) if receiving HER2-targeted treatment
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Clinical reviews to monitor side effects and adjust medication if required
Your treatment is coordinated by a medical oncologist, supported by a specialised nursing and pharmacy team.
Key Points
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Focuses on specific cancer-cell pathways, limiting damage to normal tissue.
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Used for HER2-positive, ER-positive, or BRCA-mutated cancers.
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Usually given with chemotherapy or hormone therapy.
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Side effects are mild and closely monitored.
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Personalised treatment planning at Breast & Wellness ensures safety and effectiveness.