How Colorectal Neoplasms Medications Work

Colorectal neoplasms, including cancer and polyps, are often treated with medications that target specific pathways involved in tumor growth and progression. The primary goal of these treatments is to slow or stop the growth of tumors, prevent recurrence, or improve symptoms.

Treatment Options

• Chemotherapy: Medications such as fluorouracil (5-FU) and oxaliplatin work by interfering with DNA replication and cell division, ultimately leading to tumor cell death. Chemotherapy is often used in combination with other treatments.
• Targeted Therapy: Drugs like bevacizumab and cetuximab target specific molecules involved in tumor growth and angiogenesis (blood vessel formation). By inhibiting these pathways, targeted therapy can slow or stop tumor growth.
• Immunotherapy: Medications such as nivolumab and pembrolizumab enhance the body's immune response to recognize and attack cancer cells. Immunotherapy is often used in combination with other treatments.

Gold Standard: Surgery

Surgery remains the gold standard for treating colorectal neoplasms, particularly for early-stage cancers or large polyps. Surgical removal of the tumor can be curative and is often followed by adjuvant therapy to prevent recurrence.