Targeted therapy

Targeted therapy uses drugs or other substances to block the action of specific enzymes, proteins, or other molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. A small number of pancreatic cancers may respond to targeted therapy. Molecular testing of the tumor is important and can help your doctor decide whether you are a candidate for targeted therapy.

Targeted therapies used to treat pancreatic cancer include:

Daraxonrasib is an experimental targeted therapy taken by mouth that targets mutations in the KRAS gene. Nine out of ten pancreatic cancers have this mutation, and it is one of the earliest gene changes found as the disease progresses. Daraxonrasib can have difficult side effects, such as rash and mouth sores. While not yet approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), daraxonrasib is available under FDA’s expanded access, also called “compassionate use,” because it has been shown to extend survival and improve quality of life for people with advanced, previously treated pancreatic cancer.

Learn more about Targeted Therapy to Treat Cancer.