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Macmillan and Cancerbackup merged in 2008. Together we provide free, high quality information for people affected by cancer through our publications, website and phone service. Find out more|.
Find out how we produce our information|
Different chemotherapy drugs cause different side effects. Everyone is individual and will react to chemotherapy treatment| in a unique way.
Some people have very few side effects|, while others have a lot. Almost all side effects are short-term and will gradually disappear once the treatment stops.
The main areas of your body that may be affected by chemotherapy are those where there is a high turnover of normal cells, such as the lining of your mouth and digestive system, your skin, hair and bone marrow (the spongy material that fills the bones and produces new blood cells).
If you want to know more about the side effects that may be caused by the chemotherapy drugs you're having, ask your doctor or chemotherapy nurse. Although these side effects can be unpleasant, they need to be weighed against the benefits of the treatment.
It's important to tell your doctor or chemotherapy nurse if the treatment is making you feel unwell. You may be able to have medicines to help you, or changes can be made to your treatment to lessen any side effects.
Our sections on individual chemotherapy drugs| and chemotherapy combinations| give detailed information on their side effects.
For answers, support or just a chat, call the Macmillan Support Line free (Monday to Friday, 9am-8pm)
If you have any questions about cancer, need support or just want someone to talk to, ask Macmillan.