Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy—often called “chemo”—is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to destroy rapidly growing cells in the body. It can cure cancer, control it, or ease symptoms when a cure isn’t possible.
How Chemotherapy Works
Chemotherapy drugs circulate through the bloodstream, reaching cancer cells almost anywhere in the body. Because they target fast-growing cells, they can also affect healthy cells that divide quickly—like those in the mouth, hair, and intestines—leading to side effects.
- It can be used alone or with other treatments such as surgery, radiation, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy.
- It may be given to shrink tumors before surgery (neoadjuvant) or kill remaining cells afterward (adjuvant).
- It can also be used to control advanced cancer and relieve symptoms.
How It’s Given
- Intravenous (IV): Most common route—through a vein, port, or central line.
- Oral (pills or capsules): Taken by mouth at home, with monitoring.
- Injection: Into muscle, under skin, or directly into tumor or cavity.
- Topical: Creams or gels for certain skin cancers.
- Given in cycles (periods of treatment followed by rest).
- Schedules vary—daily, weekly, or every few weeks.
- Length can range from months to longer maintenance therapy.
Common Side Effects
- Fatigue or weakness
- Nausea, vomiting, or appetite loss
- Hair loss (temporary)
- Mouth sores or dry mouth
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Low blood counts (infection, anemia, bleeding risk)
- Numbness or tingling in hands/feet (neuropathy)
- Skin or nail changes
- “Chemo brain” (temporary memory or focus issues)
Not everyone experiences all these effects, and many can be managed with medications and supportive care. Most side effects improve after treatment ends.
Managing Side Effects
- Nausea: Preventive anti-nausea drugs are given before chemo.
- Infection prevention: Wash hands often; report fever >100.4°F (38°C).
- Nutrition: Eat small, frequent meals and stay hydrated.
- Energy: Balance rest with light activity to fight fatigue.
- Hair & skin: Use mild shampoos and gentle skincare.
Safety & Support
Chemotherapy is powerful but closely monitored. Blood counts and organ function are checked often. Nurses and pharmacists verify every dose for safety.
Patients may benefit from:
- Support groups or counseling to handle emotional stress.
- Fertility preservation before starting treatment (if needed).
- Financial and transportation assistance programs.
đź’ˇ What to Ask Your Doctor
- What drugs will I receive, and how do they work?
- What side effects should I expect—and how can I manage them?
- How long will each cycle last, and how many cycles will I need?
- Will I be able to work or travel during treatment?
- Are there oral or targeted alternatives?
Types of Chemotherapy Drugs
- Alkylating agents: damage DNA to prevent cell division (e.g., cyclophosphamide, cisplatin).
- Antimetabolites: mimic DNA/RNA building blocks (e.g., 5-FU, methotrexate).
- Antitumor antibiotics: interfere with DNA replication (e.g., doxorubicin).
- Plant alkaloids: block cell division (e.g., paclitaxel, vincristine).
- Topoisomerase inhibitors: stop DNA unwinding (e.g., irinotecan, etoposide).
When Chemotherapy Is Used
- Curative intent: to eliminate all cancer cells (e.g., testicular cancer).
- Adjuvant therapy: after surgery to destroy any remaining cells.
- Neoadjuvant therapy: before surgery to shrink a tumor.
- Palliative therapy: to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
Chemotherapy has helped millions of people live longer, fuller lives. Today’s drugs and supportive care make treatment safer and more effective than ever before.
Learn more at the National Cancer Institute