Based on how far the tumor has spread and its size, kidney cancer is majorly divided into four stages. Stage 1 and 2 of kidney cancer indicate how big the tumor is and its location. Stage 2, however, also shows how much the tumor has grown in size. If the tumor spreads to a major vein, a different organ, or the lymph nodes, then cancer is known to reach Stage 3 or 4. Stage 4 is the most advanced stage where the adrenal gland attached to the kidney is affected. The lymph system or other parts of the body are also affected by the tumor at this stage.

One of the major treatment options for kidney cancer is targeted therapy that majorly functions by blocking new blood vessels or proteins that encourage the growth of cancer. Targeted medicines are used when chemotherapy isn’t efficient enough. Some of these medicines include:

Sorafenib
This medicine functions by blocking various tyrosine kinases. It helps improve the condition by blocking the growth of various agents and blood vessels that contribute to the growth of cancer cells. This medicine is taken in the form of a pill and is given to the patient twice every day.

Pazopanib
Similar to sorafenib, this medicine also works by blocking several tyrosine kinases that contribute to the growth of cancerous cells. It prevents the growth and formation of new blood cells in the tumor that worsens the situation. This medicine is taken in the form of pills once every day. When this medicine is prescribed to the patient, the doctor should also monitor the patient’s heart to ensure the general functions are normal. They should also monitor the liver through various blood tests.

Sunitinib
Any proteins which might be stimulating the growth of cancer cells will be blocked by this medicine. In addition to that, angiogenesis, which is the growth of new blood vessels in the tumor, is also blocked by this medicine. These actions are blocked due to the blockage of several tyrosine kinases that are required for the growth and survival of cancer cells. This medicine, similar to the previous medicines, is taken in the form of a pill and should be taken for 4 weeks with a gap of 2 weeks.

Cabozantinib
This medicine can be used in people with intermediate or poor-risk advanced kidney cancer. This also works by blocking tyrosine kinases to block the angiogenesis and other proteins that contribute to a cancer-friendly environment. This medicine can also be used after the patient has already taken a different medicine. This medicine can also be taken after immunotherapy treatments. It should be taken in the form of pills and is recommended once every day.