How Long Does Chemotherapy Take?

When people think of cancer treatments, they often think of chemotherapy. This type of cancer treatment uses a range of drugs that target rapidly dividing cancer cells. It is a vital part of many treatment plans and can be used with other medications and therapies. 

What is Chemotherapy?

Cancer cells grow and divide more rapidly than they should, causing them to grow out of control Chemotherapy uses several methods to target these fast-dividing cells and prevent them from growing. At Cochise Oncology, we often use chemotherapy to eliminate cancer, prevent its spread, or shrink tumors. We may combine it with other treatments to maximize your benefits. 

Chemotherapy Sierra Vista, Tucson

How Long Does Chemotherapy Take?

Each chemotherapy drug is administered on its own schedule. Many chemotherapy agents are administered in cycles that typically last several weeks. You may have several cycles. Chemotherapy often takes three to six months. Your treatment may differ since all chemotherapy agents have a different schedule. 

How Does Chemotherapy Work?

Chemotherapy can be administered on the skin, orally, or through an IV. We will explain the details of your treatment plan, so you know what to expect. Chemotherapy drugs can work in several ways, including:

Alkylating Agents

These agents damage the DNA of cancer cells. This keeps them from reproducing and spreading. These agents are often used to treat lung, breast, and ovarian cancer, sarcomas, and lymphoma. 

Antimetabolites

These drugs keep cells from dividing by interfering with DNA when it tries to make copies of itself. They replace the standard components of DNA so the cells cannot reproduce. These drugs have many uses, including leukemia and breast and ovarian cancers. 

Antitumor Agents

These drugs interfere with the enzymes that cells use to copy and build their DNA. When these enzymes do not work, cancer cells cannot make copies of their DNA and cannot create new cancer cells. These drugs have a wide range of uses. 

Can You Have Chemotherapy With Other Treatments?

Your Cochise Oncology specialist may combine several treatments into your individualized plan. Chemo may be performed before, after, or during other treatments. These include surgery, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. 

What are the Side Effects of Chemotherapy?

While you may think of awful side effects when you think of chemotherapy, many newer types cause fewer and less severe side effects. You may or may not experience:

  • Fatigue
  • Mood changes
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nerve pain or numbness
  • Nausea
  • Anemia

Your specialist will explain what you can expect from any chemotherapy drugs you receive. We will assist you with managing any side effects you experience. 

Take the Next Step

Do you have questions about chemotherapy? Reach out to Cochise Oncology at (520) 803-6644 or fill out the consultation form on this page.

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