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What Makes Hedgehog Pathway Inhibitors a Game Changer for Skin Cancer?
Published: Jun 03, 2024
Hedgehog pathway inhibitors like vismodegib and sonidegib have transformed the treatment of advanced basal cell carcinoma (BCC). These drugs target the specific pathways that allow these cancers to grow.
How Do Hedgehog Pathway Inhibitors Work?
These drugs target the hedgehog signaling pathway, which is involved in cell growth and development. In BCC, this pathway can be abnormally activated, leading to tumor growth. Hedgehog pathway inhibitors work by blocking this pathway, thereby stopping cancer cells from multiplying.
Vismodegib: A Breakthrough in Treatment
Vismodegib is taken orally and has shown significant activity in treating locally advanced BCC. Studies have reported response rates between 40% to 70%, making it a powerful tool against this type of cancer. However, it can have side effects like muscle spasms and changes in taste.
Sonidegib: An Alternative Option
Sonidegib is another hedgehog pathway inhibitor that can be used for locally advanced BCC. It is also administered orally and has similar efficacy to vismodegib, although it has not been directly compared in clinical trials. Common side effects include muscle spasms and nausea.
Frequently Asked Questions
They are drugs that block pathways involved in cancer cell growth.
It shows response rates of 40% to 70% in treating advanced BCC.
Muscle spasms and nausea are common.
No, they are used as alternative treatments.
The Bottom Line
Hedgehog pathway inhibitors have opened new doors in the fight against advanced BCC.
References
- Epstein EH. Basal cell carcinomas: attack of the hedgehog. Nat Rev Cancer 2008; 8:743.
- US Food and Drug Administration Prescribing Label for Vismodegib https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2023/203388s017lbl.pdf
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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