In order to bring you the best possible user experience, this site uses Javascript. If you are seeing this message, it is likely that the Javascript option in your browser is disabled. For optimal viewing of this site, please ensure that Javascript is enabled for your browser.
 EMAIL TO FRIEND     |      PRINTER FRIENDLY     |    
          advertisement

Chemotherapy Drugs

Also called: Cancer Drugs, Cancer Medications

- Summary
- About chemotherapy drugs
- Types and differences
- Potential side effects
- Drug or other interactions
- Safe handling of medications
- Child use issues
- Elderly use issues
- Ongoing research
- Questions for your doctor

Reviewed By:
Martin E. Liebling, M.D., FACP
Mark Oren, M.D., FACP

Summary

Chemotherapy drugs are among the most commonly prescribed treatments for cancer. These drugs target fast-dividing cancer cells in an attempt to destroy them. There are many different kinds of chemotherapy drugs, and often they are used in combination to more effectively combat disease.

A medical oncologist is a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating tumors with drugs. This physician is often considered the patient’s “quarterback” on the cancer care team. The oncologist considers many factors in deciding which chemotherapy drugs are most appropriate in treating a patient’s cancer. It is important that patients receive the exact amount of a medication to properly treat their cancer. Too little of a chemotherapy drug will result in a decreased benefit, while too much can produce an increased chance of life-threatening side effects. Patients are closely monitored to ensure that they are getting the most effective treatment possible for their disease and that the side effects are held to a minimum.

Patients who use chemotherapy drugs may experience significant side effects from the treatment. These side effects must be weighed against the potential life-saving benefits of chemotherapy. While chemotherapy medications most often are administered at a medical facility, they sometimes are taken at home. Patients who use and store chemotherapy drugs at home must follow strict guidelines to ensure that the drugs do not present a danger to themselves or to others.

page 1 of 7 | Next Page




Review Date: 05-02-2007
Video
An Experimental Vaccine May Lengthen the Lives of Prostate Cancer Patients
Seattle-based Dendreon Corp. says its experimental Provenge cancer...
Olive Oil
How it can lower your breast cancer risk.
Why Clinical Trial Participation is Important
Find out how participating in clinical trials helps cancer research...
Being an Empowered Patient
Patient responsibility and what we need to do to make sure we become...
Cancer: How close to a cure?
Fortune's Clifton Leaf and Dr. Snyderman discuss the latest cancer...
Balancing the Caregiver's Burden
Paying attention to your own needs is necessary to make you the best...

Advice from Dr. Nancy Snyderman

Dr. Nancy Snyderman

Helpful tips and information on weight loss

Get answers from an expert
advertisement
advertisement

YourTotalHealth      

Home  |  Health Centers  |  Health A-Z  |  Staying Healthy  |  Diet & Fitness  |  Woman & Family  |  Pregnancy  |  Community  |  

also on iVillage: Pregnancy & Parenting  |  Beauty & Style  |  Home & Garden  |  Food  |  Weddings  |  Love  |  Entertainment  |  NeverSayDiet

Terms of Service  |  Privacy Policy  |  Site Map  |  Newsletters  |  Feedback

Copyright (c) 2000-2009 iVillage Inc. All rights reserved. The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.