Tagrisso is a kind of targeted therapy. It targets certain cancer cells, which is different than how chemotherapy or immunotherapy drugs work.
Chemotherapy drugs kill cells that are rapidly growing and multiplying. But chemotherapy drugs can’t tell the difference between cancer cells and healthy cells that are rapidly growing and multiplying. This can lead to many side effects.
Immunotherapy drugs help your immune system recognize the presence of cancer cells. This helps your body attack the cancer cells, similar to the way your body fights a bacterial or viral infection.
If you have other questions about how Tagrisso is different from other types of treatment, talk with your doctor.