Cancer Infusion Treatment in Connecticut, Maryland, and New Jersey

How Does Chemotherapy Work?

Chemotherapy uses medication administered intravenously to attack cancer cells. Chemotherapy drugs can stop cancer from spreading and kill existing cancerous cells. These drugs can be used in combination with radiation, immunotherapy, and surgery or as a standalone treatment.

Each patient’s course of chemotherapy will be different. Some people receive chemotherapy before surgery to help shrink a tumor before it’s surgically removed. Other people receive chemo after a course of radiation to help kill any remaining cancerous cells. Your medical team will work with you to develop a schedule for your chemotherapy infusions, which may be daily, weekly, or monthly. You’ll have breaks between doses to give your body time to recover.

Everyone responds to chemotherapy differently. Though chemotherapy drugs treat cancer cells, they can also kill healthy, growing cells in the body too. That’s why many patients who go through chemotherapy can lose their hair. Patients may experience other side effects such as nausea and fatigue.

Most patients receive chemotherapy drugs through an intravenous (IV) infusion, but chemotherapy can also be administered as an injection or pill. Patients at Regional Cancer Care Associates can receive chemo treatment at one of our many community-based cancer centers. We create a warm and welcoming environment where patients feel comfortable while getting their infusion.

Treatment areas are open, and other patients may be receiving an infusion at the same time as you. The length of time each treatment session takes depends on your specific care plan. Some patients like to bring an activity or book to read while they get their infusion.