Types of Medication
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy drugs are anti-cancer therapies delivered intravenously or swallowed as pills or capsules. These drugs are directed at tumors that have metastasized (spread) outside of the uterus. Chemotherapy is given in "cycles" of 3 to 4 weeks, followed by a "rest period" for approximately 6 cycles.
Side effects are due to the toxicity on normal cells, such as those found in hair follicles, in the lining of the colon and in bone marrow cells. Thus, common side effects include hair loss, nausea, vomiting, anemia (leading to fatigue) and low white blood count (leading to a susceptibility to infections). Drugs are available to treat these side effects, including growth factors that help the bone marrow generate new healthy cells.
Side effects of cancer treatment
All women considering treatment for cancer are concerned about side effects of their therapy. The side effects you may experience depend on many factors and are different in each woman.
Your physician can explain the possible side effects of each type of cancer treatment. If side effects do occur, many things can be done to reduce or relieve the symptoms.
More on Ovarian Cancer
How Is Ovarian Cancer Diagnosed and Treated?
Finding Support
In the Encyclopedia:
Ascites
Infertility drugs
Hysterectomy
Oophorectomy
Ovarian cancer
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