Recent breakthroughs in medical research have led to the development of new treatments for advanced breast cancer. Two treatments for advanced breast cancer have shown promising results, offering renewed hope for patients with limited options. Capivasertib (Truqap) and Datopotamab Deruxtecan (Dato-DXd) represent the latest advancements in targeted therapies, providing more effective ways to combat aggressive forms of the disease.
Capivasertib: is a kinase inhibitor, that works by blocking abnormal proteins that drive cancer cell growth, effectively slowing or stopping disease progression. It has been approved for adults with hormone receptor (HR)-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer harboring specific genetic mutations (PIK3CA, AKT1, or PTEN), the drug has been specifically designed for cases where the cancer has spread locally or advanced.
Clinical trials have demonstrated that combining capivasertib with fulvestrant delays cancer progression by an average of 4.2 months compared to standard treatments. The UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has endorsed the therapy, making it available through the Cancer Drugs Fund.
Datopotamab Deruxtecan, another innovative drug, is an antibody-drug conjugate that delivers chemotherapy directly to cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissue. This treatment is approved for HR-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer patients who have already undergone hormone therapy and chemotherapy.
Studies show that the therapy significantly extends progression-free survival (6.9 months vs. 4.9 months) and improves response rates (36% vs. 23%) compared to conventional chemotherapy. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has greenlit its use for advanced or metastatic breast cancer, marking a major milestone in personalized cancer care.
These advancements highlight the growing shift toward precision medicine, where treatments are tailored to a patient’s genetic and molecular profile. Experts believe these therapies could redefine standards of care, offering patients more time and improved quality of life.
Both treatments show potential in slowing cancer progression and improving patient outcomes. As research continues, these new treatments pave the way for even more innovative solutions in the fight against breast cancer, bringing hope to thousands worldwide.
Source: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
