Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses drugs that interfere with the cancer cells' ability to divide and reproduce. Depending upon the kind of cancer and its stage of development, chemotherapy can be used to control the cancer by preventing its spread or slowing its growth; by shrinking tumors prior to other treatments, such as surgery (neoadjuvant therapy); by destroying tumor cells left behind after surgery (adjuvant therapy); by relieving symptoms, such as pain (palliative therapy).

The most common method of delivery of chemotherapy drugs is by injection into a vein; however, depending on the type of cancer and the drug used, delivery can be by mouth, into the muscle, or into the skin or by placing them directly into a body cavity (intracavitary chemotherapy)

Most chemotherapy drugs cause fatigue or even exhaustion. Other side effects may include nausea, vomiting and hair loss. Specific side effects will depend upon the drug(s) prescribed, the dosage, and the length of treatment. Medications can be given to minimize these effects.