Chemotherapy explained

Chemotherapy uses drugs to treat cancer. It can be given in different ways and will be carefully planned.

Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses drugs to treat many different types of cancer. It is most commonly given as an injection into a vein or as tablets or capsules.
Side effects of chemotherapy
Chemotherapy treatment can cause different side effects. Your doctor or nurse can help you control and manage them.
How chemotherapy is given
Chemotherapy can be given in different ways depending on the type of cancer you have and your treatment plan.
Central lines

A central line is a long, thin hollow tube. It is inserted into a vein in your chest to give chemotherapy and other drugs.
PICC lines
A PICC line is a long, thin, flexible tube known as a catheter. It is put into the arm to give chemotherapy and other medicines.
Cannulas

A cannula is a short, thin tube that is put into a vein in your arm or the back of your hand for treatment. It will be removed before you go home.
Implantable ports
An implantable port is a tube with a rubber disc at the end. It is inserted into a vein to give chemotherapy or other medicines.
Intrathecal chemotherapy
Intrathecal chemotherapy is given into the fluid around the brain and spinal cord. This is given during a lumbar puncture.
Chemotherapy into a limb
Chemotherapy can be given directly into a limb to treat cancer that is in one area. You may develop some side effects, mostly in the limb that was treated.

Common chemotherapy drugs

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