Overview
Normal cells as well as cancer cells are affected by chemotherapy because chemotherapy agents cannot distinguish between the two. This can result in undesired side effects. However, everyone responds differently to chemotherapy. Some patients experience side effects, while others have none. Not experiencing side effects does not mean your treatment is not working. If you do have side effects, you may have all or only some of the side effects associated with the drug or drugs you are taking. Your doctor or nurse will be able to tell you which side effects are most likely.
There are ways to manage some of the side effects of chemotherapy while you receive your treatment. Always inform your doctor or nurse of any effects you have that are bothersome or different from what you have experienced in the past. Talk to them before using the suggestions described in this program. To learn more about side effects, read the information about the drugs you will be taking, then click on the specific side effects on the list below of this page.