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Chemotherapy

Definition

Chemotherapy (chemo) is the treatment of cancer with drugs that can destroy cancer cells. These drugs often are called "anticancer" drugs. Most people don't know that cancer chemotherapy includes a variety of drugs that are given in a variety of ways such as:

• Drugs that are given into the bloodstream through an IV (called 'intravenous' chemotherapy). These drugs can be given over minutes or hours called an infusion.
• Drugs are also given slowly and continuously over several days using a pump. This is called a continuous infusion.
• Drugs that are taken by mouth as pills or liquids (called oral chemotherapy).
• Drugs that are placed directly into a body area (called intracavitary chemotherapy).
• Drugs that are placed on the skin as creams.

Getting Treatment

Chemotherapy is given in the following areas:

Making an Appointment

Prior to scheduling an appointment at one of our Infusion Centers, you will need to be referred by your oncologist. For more information, contact Cancer AnswerLine at 1-800-865-1125 or visit their web page.

How is chemotherapy done?

Chemotherapy may be given as tablets, or more commonly, via an intravenous line. Sometimes just one drug is used, although combinations are most common. Chemotherapy is often combined with surgery, radiation therapy, or both in an individual's treatment plan.

What side effects does chemotherapy cause?

It is well-known that chemotherapy sometimes causes unpleasant side effects like nausea, anemia, fatigue, and hair loss. But it is not so well known that there are new drugs and treatment plans that are cutting down on the intensity of those side effects. The University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center has one of the premier chemotherapy programs in the country. Because the potential for improvement may outweigh the discomforts of any possible side effects, a cancer patient should not hesitate discussing risks and benefits with his or her cancer physician.

How can I get more information about chemotherapy?

For more information, contact Cancer AnswerLine at 1-800-865-1125 or visit their web page.

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Developed by McKesson Health Solutions LLC.
Published by McKesson Health Solutions LLC.
This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information is intended to inform and educate and is not a replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.