Chemo: What It Is, How It Helps
This easy-to-read guide explains chemotherapy at a basic level.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy (chemo) is the use of medicines or drugs to treat cancer. The thought of having chemotherapy frightens many people. But knowing what chemotherapy is, how it works, and what to expect can often help calm your fears. It can also give you a better sense of control over your cancer treatment.
Understanding Chemotherapy: A Guide for Patients and Families
Get more detailed information about chemotherapy, including what it is, how it is given, and what the possible side effects are. Also included are questions you should ask your health care team.
Chemotherapy Principles: An In-depth Discussion of the Techniques and its Role in Treatment
Go here for a more thorough discussion of chemotherapy, including information on the different types of chemotherapy drugs.
Oral Chemotherapy: What You Need to Know
Today, there are many types of chemotherapy (chemo) that can be swallowed as a liquid, tablet, or capsule. Oral chemo is any drug you take by mouth to treat your cancer. Learn more about oral forms of chemo here.Chemotherapy Side Effects Worksheet [PDF, 62.04Kb]
If you are getting chemotherapy, this worksheet (in PDF format) can help you keep track of your side effects so that your health care team can help you manage them.
Off-Label Drug Use
When a drug is used in a different way than described in the FDA-approved drug label, it is said to be an "off-label" use. Off-label drug use is common in cancer treatment. Learn more about it here.
Compassionate Drug Use
Medical professionals use the term "compassionate use" to refer to the treatment of a seriously ill patient using a new, unapproved drug when no other treatments are available.
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