What is Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a general term for any treatment involving the use of a chemical agent (medication) to stop cancer cells from growing. Chemotherapy may be given intravenously (infusion given directly into the vein) or orally in the form of a pill. MedfusionRx specializes in various oral chemotherapy agents.

How Chemotherapy Works

Chemotherapy works by destroying cancer cells in the body. There are many different types of chemotherapy drugs that are designed to treat various forms of cancer and blood disorders. Your doctor has determined the chemotherapy drug that is most appropriate for you and the type of cancer you have. It is important to take your medication as prescribed and you should not skip doses. When the chemotherapy drug is not taken as prescribed, the cancer cells may replicate (multiply) and the cancer may become more difficult to treat. However, it is important if a dose is missed that you do not double up on your medication; you may take the missed dose when remembered and then resume your regular schedule.

Managing Chemotherapy Side Effects

There are various forms of chemotherapy drugs and some side effects are more common with certain medications. Please review the drug information guide that has been included with your medication for common side effects of your medication. There are some side effects that are common to most chemotherapy drugs such as drops in your normal blood cell counts, nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite and mouth sores. Listed below are some tips for managing these side effects if they occur while you are taking chemotherapy.

• Hair Loss
  Chemotherapy drugs destroy rapidly-dividing blood cells in the body which includes cancer cells but may also affect hair cells and blood cells. Not all chemotherapy drugs cause hair loss. You may check with your doctor or you may contact a pharmacist at MedfusionRx for any questions regarding your medication.
• Low Blood Counts
  Due to the chemotherapy effects on your healthy blood cells, it is important to have your blood work/lab work checked when scheduled. The chemotherapy medication may cause a drop in the white blood cells, which may increase your risk of infection, and in the platelets, which may increase your risk of bleeding. If you develop a fever greater than 100.0 Fahrenheit, you should notify your doctor immediately.
• Nausea and Vomiting/Loss of Appetite
  A common side effect of chemotherapy medication is nausea and vomiting and loss of appetite. Side effects of chemotherapy can be managed, allowing you to enjoy a productive quality of life.
  • Eat small snacks and meals every two-three hours instead of three meals per day.
  • Eat high calorie, nutrient rich foods.
  • Avoid heavy meals and greasy or fried foods.
  • Discuss with your doctor about medication options for these side effects
• Mouth Sores
  Mouth sores are a possible side effect of chemotherapy treatment.
  • Use a soft bristle toothbrush.
  • Rinse your mouth with 1 teaspoon of baking soda or salt in 8 ounces of water four to five times daily.
  • Keep mouth and teeth clean.
  • Avoid mouthwash containing alcohol.

The information provided above is educational material and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice. You should discuss the information and how it may be applicable to you with your healthcare provider. For MedfusionRx patients if you have any questions about your medication or the side effects, please see the contact us page for your pharmacy number. For more information on dosing, precautions, warnings, interactions and contraindications for a specific medication, please refer to the product information (prescribing information) provided with your medication.