How Is Chemotherapy Treatment Given?

Chemotherapy treatment is used for treating cancer. It is the most systematic and useful method for treating cancer as it destroys and obstructs the growth of cancerous cells in the body. Some of the common side effects of this treatment are constipation, fatigue, vomiting, hair loss, nausea and changes in the nervous system.

The chemotherapy treatment is given in two ways. They are intravenously and orally.

Intravenous Chemotherapy: This treatment is the most common technique used to administer chemotherapy treatment to the patients through the vein. In this method, the chemotherapy drugs are given through a device which is placed in the vein and removed after the treatment is over. This device is known as VAD or Venous Access Device.

This treatment is given in cycles and the number of cycles to be administered to the patient is determined by the doctor. This treatment is given initially for one day and then the next cycle of treatment would be given after four weeks rest to the patient.

Oral chemotherapy: The oral chemotherapy is given in the form of tablets and capsules. The main benefit of this treatment is that the patient can easily take these pills prescribed by the doctor at home by swallowing it with water.

The patient need not come to the hospital for treatment. It also provides you relief from the pain that other treatments like injections would cause while undergoing the treatment. However, you have to also take into consideration some very important aspects. They are taking the medicines for prescribed period only and at right times specified by the doctor.

You should strictly follow all the guidelines given by the doctor such as washing the hands after taking medicines, taking the drugs either before meals or after. In case, you forget to take the pills or did not understand the instructions for taking the medicines then you should consult the doctor or medical professional for assistance and clear all your queries.

Another method for giving this treatment is through injections. In this method, the drugs are directly injected into your blood stream. These medicines are either injected into your muscle, vein or under the skin.