What is Chemotherapy, its side effects

What is chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy or cytotoxic agents are drugs, which interfere with cell division. They prevent cells from multiplying. They are non-selective and will affect any cell which is rapidly dividing, whether it is cancerous or non- cancerous. Cytotoxics are usually given in combination or with drugs which interfere with replication at different phases of the cell cycle. This improves their effectiveness and reduces the likelihood of the development drug resistance. Chemotherapy is given every 21 to 28 days to allow recovery of the bone marrow. Each treatment is called a cycle and usually a course of chemotherapy involves a number of cycles. The toxicities of each agent given in combination should not overlap.

What are the side effects of chemotherapy?

The common side effects include nausea and vomiting, loss of hair, stomach upset, kidney dysfunction, bone marrow suppression, tinnitus (abnormal noises in the ears) and high frequency hearing loss. Also lung disease and infertility may occur.