Single Biggest Cancer Dictionary in the World
What is
small-molecule drug
?Pronunciation: /smɔl ˈmɑləˌkjul drəg/
small-molecule drug
Definition
A drug that can enter cells easily because it has a low molecular weight. Once inside the cells, it can affect other molecules, such as proteins, and may cause cancer cells to die. This is different from drugs that have a large molecular weight, which keeps them from getting inside cells easily. Many targeted therapies are small-molecule drugs.