Therapies
How Cancer therapies work, in plain language
Once the diagnosis and molecular profile are clear, I build a plan that may draw on one or more of the treatments below, often in combination, always with your overall health and preferences taken into account.
For the full list of what is covered, see Services.
Chemotherapy, oral and intravenous
Chemotherapy uses medicines that act on rapidly dividing cells. It remains a core part of treatment for many Cancers, given by infusion, as tablets, or as a combination regimen chosen for your Cancer type and stage. Different drugs have different benefits and side effects, and I tailor each regimen to your diagnosis and overall health. See Chemotherapy for how common regimens differ, what to expect, and how side effects are managed.
Targeted therapy
Targeted therapies act on the specific molecular features of a Cancer: the mutations, proteins or pathways driving a particular tumour. I prescribe targeted therapy for solid and haematological Cancers when molecular testing identifies a change that a treatment can act on. See Targeted Therapy & Molecular Testing for which biomarkers matter for which Cancers, and how a result can change treatment.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy helps the body’s own immune system recognise and act against Cancer cells, using monoclonal antibodies, checkpoint inhibitors, CAR-T cell therapy and combination approaches. Whether it is suitable depends on the type of Cancer and, often, on molecular markers found on testing. See Immunotherapy for how each approach works and the newer options now available in India.
Managing side effects
Every treatment plan comes with a plan for the side effects it can cause, such as nausea, fatigue and blood-count changes, with clear guidance on what to expect and when to make contact. Supportive care is part of treatment, not separate from it. See Beyond Cancer Treatment.
Common questions
How do you decide which therapy is right for me?
I look at the type and stage of the Cancer, its molecular profile where relevant, your overall health, previous treatments and your priorities, then explain the options, expected benefits and possible side effects so we can decide together.
Can chemotherapy and immunotherapy be combined?
Yes, for some Cancers combination regimens are supported by evidence and can improve outcomes. Whether it applies to you depends on your specific diagnosis.
What is the difference between targeted therapy and chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy acts on rapidly dividing cells generally. Targeted therapy is directed at specific molecular changes driving your Cancer, identified through molecular testing, and can often work while causing less harm to healthy tissue.
Will I lose my hair during treatment?
It depends on the specific drugs used. Some chemotherapy regimens cause hair loss, others do not, and targeted therapy and immunotherapy affect hair differently again. I will tell you what to expect from your specific regimen.
How are side effects managed during therapy?
Every treatment plan comes with a plan for managing the side effects it can cause, with clear guidance on what to expect and when to contact us. See Managing side effects above.
This page is general information and not medical advice for your situation. The choice, dose and combination of any treatment depends on a full clinical assessment. Medically reviewed by Dr Sneha Kommineni.
Understand which therapy fits your Cancer
If you have queries on your treatment options and need answers, I am happy to help. Discuss your diagnosis with me and I will explain the options for your situation.
Contact Spashta Healthcare · +91 99000 79030