How does erlotinib (Tarceva®) work?
Erlotinib (Tarceva®) targets a protein called the Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 1, also referred to as HER1 and EGFR. The EGFR protein is found in abnormally high levels on the surface of some pancreatic cancer cells. By targeting EGFR, erlotinib blocks the growth of the cancerous cells. This targeted therapy drug is often prescribed along with gemcitabine (Gemzar®) for patients with locally advanced and metastatic pancreatic cancer. Is targeted therapy given with other treatments? Erlotinib (Tarceva®) is FDA approved to treat pancreatic cancer in combination with gemcitabine (Gemzar®). Targeted therapies in pancreatic cancer clinical trials are generally tested in combination with chemotherapy and/or other treatment(s) such as surgery. Why are targeted therapies used? Since targeted therapies attack specific receptors on some cancer cells, they generally do not harm healthy cells. This is important as it reduces the side effects associated with the drug. Targeted cancer thera
