Chemotherapy (chemo) and immunotherapy are two modes oftreatmentthat can be used for various types of cancer.
While the treatments can be similar and even used together, they are two different and distinct therapies.
Knowing more about each can help you talk with your treatment team and make decisions about your care.
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How Does It Work?
Chemotherapy targets fast-growing cells, which cancer cells are.
Chemotherapy usually is given in cyclesperiods of treatment followed by a period with no chemotherapy.
Not everyone taking the same drugs has the same side effects.
If you do start experiencing side effects, tell your treatment team about them.
Many places have financial aid options that you could apply for to help with costs.
If you have insurance, call your insurance company to ask what your out-of-pocket costs will be.
Your healthcare provider prescribes chemotherapy drugs.
Intravenous chemotherapy is typically given at a treatment center or hospital.
Some types of oral and topical chemotherapy may be taken at home, depending on your healthcare providers instructions.
Immunotherapy helps your immune system fight the cancer in your body.
In a healthy person, the immune system fights off abnormal cells, helping to prevent cancer.
Sometimes immune cells are seen in and around cancers.
Immunotherapy helps various immune cells work better against cancer cells and help to more effectively destroy them.
It may be daily, weekly, or monthly.
Talk with your treatment team about all of the potential side effects of your specific treatment.
Side effects can include:
Costs of immunotherapy can be very high.
Costs over $100,000 are not uncommon.
If you have health insurance, your insurer can talk with you about your personal out-of-pocket costs.
Immunotherapy needs to be prescribed by a treatment team, who then monitors you while taking the treatment.
What Treatment Is Best for You?
Your overall health status may also play a role in determining the best treatment for you.
You and your treatment team will meet to discuss treatment options and all of the possible side effects.
Can Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy Be Used Together?
Talk with your treatment team about whether this is a viable option for your treatment.
Coping With Side Effects
People react to side effects of chemotherapy and immunotherapy differently.
They may also have suggestions for minimizing side effects and tips to help you cope.
Sometimes side effects can get worse and require medical attention or intervention.
Your healthcare providers can let you know signs to watch out for and when to call them.
Summary
Chemotherapy and immunotherapy are both used in treating cancer.
They help to kill cancer cells in different ways, and may be used together in some people.
There are side effects to both treatments.
Its important to discuss the potential side effects with your treatment team.
There are many factors that go into treatment planning.
Both chemotherapy and immunotherapy are valid and effective treatment modalities for cancer.
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