Intravenous (IV) is by far the most common method. A needle is inserted into a vein and attached with tubing to a plastic bag holding the chemotherapy drugs. The needle is taken out at the end of each treatment. For the majority of our patients who undergo several chemotherapy sessions, they have a metal or plastic disc known as a "port" implanted under the skin, to serve as an IV connection device. IV bags are attached to a tall metal stand with wheels, providing some mobility. Some patients wear a small pump outside the body, with minimal interference to their normal routine. Oral chemotherapy drugs are given in pill or liquid form.
Injections are administered into the muscle, under the skin, or directly into a cancer lesion, depending on the type or location of the cancer.
Side effects vary from patient to patient and with the type of drugs used. The good news is that there are therapies to help you cope with some side effects, and lost hair does grow back, although sometimes in a different color or texture.
The most common side effects of chemotherapy include:
- Temporary hair loss
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Pain
- Increased risk of infection
- Depression
- Increased sun sensitivity
- Numbness or weakness in the hands and feet
