Cancer treatment
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses powerful medicines to destroy cancer cells. It is a major cancer treatment, given in cycles, and can be used to cure, control or ease symptoms depending on the situation.
Quick answer
Chemotherapy: what it is, why it's done and what happens
Chemotherapy is treatment with anti-cancer ("cytotoxic") medicines that kill rapidly dividing cancer cells, usually given as a course of cycles with rest periods.
- Why it is done: It is used to try to cure some cancers, to shrink tumours before or after other treatments, to control cancer that has spread, or to relieve symptoms.
- What happens: It is most often given into a vein (a drip) at a hospital or clinic, or sometimes as tablets.
What it is
Chemotherapy is treatment with anti-cancer ("cytotoxic") medicines that kill rapidly dividing cancer cells, usually given as a course of cycles with rest periods.
Why it is done
It is used to try to cure some cancers, to shrink tumours before or after other treatments, to control cancer that has spread, or to relieve symptoms.
What happens
It is most often given into a vein (a drip) at a hospital or clinic, or sometimes as tablets. Treatment is given in cycles over weeks to months, with blood tests to monitor you.
Recovery
Side effects vary with the drugs but can include tiredness, nausea, hair loss and a higher infection risk; most improve after treatment ends. The care team provides medicines and support to manage them.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Because it also affects some healthy fast-growing cells, chemotherapy causes side effects and a raised infection risk — a high temperature during treatment is an emergency (contact your team or the acute oncology line immediately). Treatment is tailored to the individual.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Chemotherapy: frequently asked questions
Does everyone lose their hair with chemotherapy?
No — it depends on the specific drugs. Some cause hair loss, others do not. Your team will explain what to expect from your treatment.
Why is a fever during chemotherapy an emergency?
Chemotherapy can lower the white blood cells that fight infection, so a high temperature may signal a serious infection (neutropenic sepsis). Contact your chemotherapy helpline or seek urgent care immediately.
Related
Other cancer treatment
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- Relevant Royal College / professional body
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