Second line therapy

Second line therapy refers to the treatment that is given when initial treatment (first line therapy) does not work, or stops working. It is a common term used in healthcare and medicine, particularly in the field of oncology where it is often used to describe a change in chemotherapy or other cancer treatments.

Overview

The goal of second line therapy is to continue to control the disease and maintain quality of life. This is achieved by using different drugs or treatments that may still have an effect on the disease. The choice of second line therapy depends on many factors, including the type of disease, the person's overall health, the side effects of the first line therapy, and the person's personal preferences.

In Oncology

In the field of oncology, second line therapy is often used when the cancer has not responded to the first line therapy, or when it has returned after treatment. This can include a different type of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of these. The choice of second line therapy in oncology often depends on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the person's overall health and previous treatment history.

In Infectious Diseases

Second line therapy is also used in the treatment of infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis. In this context, second line drugs are used when the bacteria causing the disease are resistant to the first line drugs. These second line drugs are often more expensive, have more side effects, and may need to be taken for a longer period of time.

In Psychiatry

In psychiatry, second line therapy often refers to the use of a different type of medication or therapy when the first line treatment has not been effective. This can include changing to a different type of antidepressant, adding a second medication, or using a different type of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy.

See Also

• First line therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Immunotherapy
• Antidepressant
• Cognitive behavioral therapy