Targeted Therapy for Advanced
Prostate Cancer
This therapy is used to treat adults with a type of advanced prostate cancer called PSMA-positive metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). It is for patients whose cancer:
- Has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic)
- Is no longer responding to hormone therapy
- Tests positive for a specific protein called PSMA (prostate-specific membrane antigen) on imaging with a PET scan
If you have already undergone treatment and are exploring next steps, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Schedule an appointment with an expert medical oncologist at City of Hope Orange County to discuss your treatment options and determine the best path forward.
What You Need to Know About Targeted Therapy
This new targeted therapy is used to treat advanced prostate cancer that doesn’t respond to other treatments anymore.
Think of it like a smart missile. It finds cancer cells by targeting a special protein on them, then delivers a tiny amount of radiation directly to those cells to kill or slow down the cancer, while mostly leaving healthy cells alone.
It’s for adult men with prostate cancer that has spread and kept growing even after other treatments, like hormone therapy or chemotherapy.
You receive this therapy through an IV (a drip in your vein) once every six weeks, usually up to six times.
The treatment can help patients live longer and slow the cancer’s growth. But like all medicines, it has side effects. Common ones include tiredness, dry mouth, nausea, and some stomach issues. There can also be effects on your blood and kidneys, your doctor will monitor you closely throughout the process.
Yes, your City of Hope Orange County physician will order a special scan to determine if your cancer cells have the target protein ensuring this therapy will be an effective treatment option for you.
The cost can be significant. We encourage you to check with your insurance provider to understand your options.
Prostate Cancer Care in Orange County
City of Hope is a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center, offering patients in Orange County exceptional expertise and leading-edge treatments for prostate cancer.
Orange County Experts Offering Innovative Care for Advanced
Prostate Cancer
Luke Chen, M.D.
Luke Chen, M.D., is a medical oncologist and hematologist at City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center and Seacliff locations. Dr. Chen’s research has explored ways to improve treatment for prostate cancer and other malignancies.
Sumanta Kumar Pal, M.D., F.A.S.C.O.
Sumanta Kumar Pal, M.D., F.A.S.C.O., is an internationally recognized leader in the area of genitourinary cancers, including kidney and bladder. He is the co-director of City of Hope’s Kidney Cancer Program.
Charles B. Nguyen, M.D.
Charles B. Nguyen, M.D., is an assistant clinical professor in the Department of Medical Oncology & Therapeutics Research at City of Hope Orange County.