Chemotherapy Treatment at The Oncology Institute of Hope and Innovation

Aug. 26, 2015 - PRLog -- Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. It is also called "chemo." Today, there are many different kinds of chemotherapy. So the way you feel during treatment may be very different from someone else.

Chemotherapy can be used to destroy cancer cells, stop cancer cells from spreading and slow the growth of cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be given alone or with other treatments. It can help other treatments work better. For example, you may get chemotherapy before or after surgery or radiation therapy. Or you may get chemotherapy before a peripheral blood stem cell transplant.

Chemotherapy can be given in these forms:
· An IV (intravenously)
· A shot (injection) into a muscle or other part of your body
· A pill or a liquid that you swallow
· A cream that is rubbed on your skin

You may get treatment every day, every week, or every month. The treatment period is followed by a period of rest when you won't get chemotherapy. This rest period gives your body a chance to build healthy new cells. Your doctor or nurse will talk with you about your treatment schedule. Ask for a written copy of it, as well.

Each person and treatment is different, so it is not always possible to tell how you will feel. Some people feel well enough to keep their normal schedules at home or at work. Others feel more tired. Today many side effects can be prevented or controlled. Talk with your doctor or nurse to learn what side effects you may have and how to manage them. The following are different types of chemotherapy medications. For more information, please do not hesitate to contact one of our offices.