Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is frequently used to treat cancer and can keep cancer from spreading, slow the growth of cancer and relieve symptoms that are caused by cancer.

Chemotherapy drugs are administered in several ways. Most of the drugs are given directly into the blood stream; some drugs can be given by mouth or by shot. Other drugs can be given directly into a body cavity or artery to concentrate the chemotherapy in a particular area. The schedule of treatment varies from patient to patient. Your doctor and nurse will review information on the drugs, the treatment schedule and the method in which the drug will be given with you and your family.

There are many drugs and different people may have different reactions to the same drug. The following are the most common side effects:

• Nausea/vomiting
• Lack of appetite/loss of taste
• Sore/dry mouth
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Fatigue
• Hair loss