Cancer
Medicines for Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
A cancer of the lymphatic (immune) system that often shows as painless swollen glands — a diverse group of conditions, many of which are very treatable.
Education and reference only. This explains which medicines are used and why, in plain language — it deliberately contains no doses and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always discuss your own treatment with a qualified clinician, and check the BNF and the product labelling for prescribing detail.
Quick answer
What is Non-Hodgkin lymphoma?
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer that starts in the lymphatic system, part of the body's immune defences, affecting white blood cells called lymphocytes. It is not a single disease but a large group of related conditions that range from slow-growing to fast-growing.
- How it is treated: Treatment depends heavily on the specific type and how fast it is growing.
- Self-care: There are no strong lifestyle preventive measures.
- When to seek help: See a GP about a painless, persistent or enlarging lump in the neck, armpit or groin, or unexplained weight loss, drenching night sweats or fevers, so the cause can be investigated.
What it is
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer that starts in the lymphatic system, part of the body's immune defences, affecting white blood cells called lymphocytes. It is not a single disease but a large group of related conditions that range from slow-growing to fast-growing. The commonest sign is one or more painless, swollen lymph glands (in the neck, armpit or groin); other symptoms can include unexplained weight loss, drenching night sweats, fevers, tiredness and itching. Most swollen glands are due to infections, not lymphoma, but glands that are persistent, painless and enlarging should be checked. Diagnosis usually needs a biopsy of an affected gland.
How it is treated
Treatment depends heavily on the specific type and how fast it is growing. Some slow-growing lymphomas that are not causing problems may simply be monitored (watchful waiting), while others are treated with combinations of chemotherapy, antibody-based treatments (immunotherapy), and sometimes radiotherapy. Newer targeted and cellular therapies are used for certain types. Many non-Hodgkin lymphomas respond very well to treatment, and some can be cured. Care is coordinated by a haematology or oncology team, with the plan tailored to the type, stage and the individual.
For this condition, these medicines
Medicine classes used for Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
Each links to a full, dose-free guide — what it is, how it works, who can and cannot use it, side effects, interactions and FAQs.
Beyond medication
Lifestyle and self-care
There are no strong lifestyle preventive measures. Prompt assessment of persistent painless swollen glands or unexplained "B symptoms" (weight loss, night sweats, fevers) supports earlier diagnosis, and general healthy living supports wellbeing through treatment.
When to get help
When to see a doctor
See a GP about a painless, persistent or enlarging lump in the neck, armpit or groin, or unexplained weight loss, drenching night sweats or fevers, so the cause can be investigated.
Not sure how urgent it is? It is always OK to call NHS 111 for advice, day or night.
Answers
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma: frequently asked questions
Are swollen glands a sign of lymphoma?
Usually not — most swollen glands are caused by infections. But glands that are painless, persistent and enlarging, especially with weight loss, night sweats or fevers, should be checked.
Is non-Hodgkin lymphoma treatable?
Many types respond very well to treatment, and some can be cured. Slow-growing types may just be monitored at first. Treatment depends on the specific type and stage.
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NICE NG52 — Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
- NHS — Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
Related conditions
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