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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|
Chemotherapy |is the use of anti-cancer (cytotoxic) drugs to destroy cancer cells. The drugs work by disrupting the growth of cancer cells.
In the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer, chemotherapy is sometimes given after surgery| to reduce the risk of the cancer coming back. It also may help to shrink tumours before surgery or relieve symptoms if surgery isn't possible.
The drugs are given by injection into a vein (intravenously) or sometimes as tablets (orally). Each cycle of chemotherapy may last a few days. After having chemotherapy you will have a rest period of a few weeks to allow your body to recover from any side effects. The number of cycles you have will depend on the type of cancer you have and how well it is responding to the treatment.
You may have your chemotherapy in the outpatient department or be given tablets to take at home. Sometimes you may need to spend a night or two in hospital to have your treatment.
Doctors are always looking to improve the treatment of lung cancer, so you may be asked to take part in a clinical trial| .
There are over 60 different chemotherapy drugs. Those most commonly used to treat non-small cell lung cancer include:
The drugs are often given in combination. For example:
Different types of non-small cell lung cancer may be treated using different combinations of chemotherapy drugs.
Chemotherapy can cause unpleasant side effects. However, many people have few side effects, and those that occur can often be well controlled with medicine. The main side effects are described here, along with some of the ways they can be reduced.
Chemotherapy can reduce the number of white blood cells made by the bone marrow, making you more likely to get an infection. The number of white cells will usually have returned to normal before your next cycle of chemotherapy is due.
Contact your doctor or the hospital straight away if your temperature goes above 38ºC (100.5ºF) or you suddenly feel unwell (even with a normal temperature).
You may find it helpful to read our information on how to avoid an infection| if you have reduced immunity.
Chemotherapy can reduce the production of platelets, which help the blood to clot. Let your doctor know if you have any unexplained bruising or bleeding, such as nosebleeds, blood spots or rashes on the skin, or bleeding gums.
While having chemotherapy, you may become anaemic. This may make you feel tired and breathless| .
There are now very effective anti-sickness drugs (anti-emetics) to prevent or reduce nausea and vomiting. Your doctor will prescribe these for you. We have tips about how to cope with nausea and vomiting| .
Regular mouthwashes can help to keep your mouth clean and relieve any soreness| . Your nurse will show you how to use these properly.
You may feel tired and have a general feeling of weakness. It's important to allow yourself plenty of time to rest.
We have information about coping with fatigue| .
Ask your doctor if the drugs you are taking are likely to make your hair fall out. Most patients are entitled to a free wig from the NHS and your doctor or nurse will be able to arrange this for you. Some people prefer to use hats or scarves. If your hair does fall out, it will grow back over a period of 3–6 months after your treatment ends.
We have information about coping with hair loss| .
Although they may be hard to bear at the time, these side effects will gradually disappear once your treatment is over.
Chemotherapy affects people in different ways. Some find they are able to lead a fairly normal life during their treatment, but many find they become very tired and have to take things much more slowly. Just do as much as you feel like and try not to overdo it.
Our chemotherapy| section discusses the treatment and its side effects in more detail.
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.