### Treatment Options for Metastatic NSCLC When non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) spreads, it becomes challenging to treat. While a cure is unlikely, treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Here are some treatment options: 1. **Targeted Therapy**: This involves drugs that target specific gene changes in cancer cells. Examples include: - **ALK gene change**: Drugs like alectinib. - **EFGR gene change**: Drugs like erlotinib. - **BRAF gene change**: Drugs like dabrafenib and trametinib. - **MET gene defect**: Drugs like capmatinib. - **NTRK gene defect**: Drugs like larotrectinib. - **ROS1 gene change**: Drugs like crizotinib. - **RET gene change**: Drugs like selpercatinib. - **KRAS gene mutation**: Drugs like adagrasib. 2. **Immunotherapy**: Uses the immune system to fight cancer. Drugs include pembrolizumab and nivolumab. Side effects can include tiredness and rash. 3. **Chemotherapy**: Uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Common side effects are hair loss and stomach upset. Often given in cycles. 4. **Radiation Therapy**: Used to relieve pain in bones or reduce fluid around the lungs. 5. **Surgery**: May be an option if the cancer is in one other place, like the brain. 6. **Palliative Care**: Focuses on comfort and managing stress. Your doctor will decide the best treatment based on your health and the cancer's spread.