Understanding Chemotherapy: Common Drugs & Side Effects
Chemotherapy is a powerful tool in the fight against cancer. While the word alone can evoke feelings of uncertainty, understanding what chemotherapy is, how it works, and what to expect can help patients and caregivers feel more informed and empowered.
In this blog, we’ll break down the basics of chemotherapy, highlight some of the most commonly used chemotherapy drugs, and explain their potential side effects.
What is Chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. Unlike surgery or radiation therapy, which target specific areas, chemotherapy travels through the bloodstream to reach cancer cells throughout the body.
Chemotherapy can be used for different purposes:
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Curative: To eliminate cancer entirely
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Control: To shrink or slow the growth of tumors
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Palliative: To relieve symptoms and improve quality of life
Common Chemotherapy Drugs
There are many chemotherapy drugs available, and they’re often used in combinations depending on the type and stage of cancer. Here are some commonly prescribed ones:
- Cisplatin
- Used for: Lung, bladder, ovarian, and testicular cancers
- Cisplatin works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, which stops them from dividing.
- Cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan)
- Used for: Breast cancer, leukemia, lymphoma
- This drug disrupts the growth of cancer cells and is often used in combination therapies.
- Paclitaxel (Taxol)
- Used for: Breast, ovarian, and lung cancers
- Paclitaxel prevents cancer cells from dividing by interfering with the normal function of microtubules.
- 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU)
- Used for: Colorectal, stomach, pancreatic, and breast cancers
- This drug mimics the building blocks of DNA and RNA, disrupting cancer cell replication.
- Doxorubicin (Adriamycin)
- Used for: Breast cancer, leukemia, and bladder cancer
- Doxorubicin inserts itself into DNA strands, preventing replication and leading to cell death.
Common Side Effects of Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy drugs target fast-growing cells, but unfortunately, they can’t distinguish between cancerous and healthy fast-growing cells (like those in the mouth, hair, or digestive tract). This leads to a range of side effects that can vary based on the drug used, the dose, and individual health factors.
Here are some of the most common side effects:
- Fatigue
- One of the most reported side effects. Fatigue can be physical, emotional, or mental and may persist even after treatment ends.
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Certain chemotherapy drugs can irritate the stomach lining or affect the brain’s vomiting center.
- Hair Loss
- Not all chemo drugs cause hair loss, but many do. It usually starts a few weeks after treatment begins.
- Low Blood Cell Counts
- Chemotherapy can affect bone marrow, leading to:
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Anemia (low red blood cells) → fatigue and weakness
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Leukopenia (low white blood cells) → increased risk of infections
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Thrombocytopenia (low platelets) → risk of bleeding or bruising
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- Chemotherapy can affect bone marrow, leading to:
- Mouth Sores and Taste Changes
- Mucous membranes are especially sensitive to chemotherapy, leading to painful sores and altered taste.
- Peripheral Neuropathy
- Some drugs cause tingling, numbness, or pain in the hands and feet due to nerve damage.
Managing Side Effects
The good news? Many side effects can be managed with medications, lifestyle changes, and support from a healthcare team. Communication is key—always report new or worsening symptoms to your doctor. Nutrition, hydration, rest, and stress management can also play a huge role in improving well-being during treatment.
Final Thoughts
Chemotherapy is a cornerstone of modern cancer treatment. While it does come with challenges, it has helped millions of patients fight and survive cancer. With the right knowledge and support system, patients can face treatment with greater confidence.
Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or just someone looking to learn more, understanding chemotherapy is a vital step toward compassionate and informed cancer care.
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