Category chemotherapy

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a medical treatment that uses potent drugs to destroy or stop the growth of cancer cells. It targets rapidly dividing cells throughout the body and is among the most common and versatile forms of cancer therapy, often combined with surgery, radiation, or newer targeted and immune-based treatments.

Key facts

  • Primary purpose: Kill or control fast-growing cancer cells.

  • Common delivery: Intravenous (IV) infusion; also oral, injection, or topical.

  • Treatment pattern: Given in cycles of active dosing and rest periods.

  • Main risks: Fatigue, hair loss, nausea, immune suppression.

  • Common combinations: Used with radiation (chemoradiation) or surgery (adjuvant/neoadjuvant).

How chemotherapy works

Chemotherapy drugs interfere with cancer cells’ ability to grow, divide, and repair DNA. Because these medicines circulate systemically, they also affect healthy cells that reproduce quickly, such as those in hair follicles, the digestive tract, and bone marrow. The specific drug or drug combination, dose, and schedule depend on the cancer’s type, stage, and patient health.