Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is an important treatment option for cancer. Today, there are many types of chemotherapy drugs that treat different kinds of cancer. There are also many factors involved in determining if and how to use chemotherapy for each individual patient.

Medicines that attack cancer cells’ ability to multiply.

Chemotherapy is a general term for “treatment with chemicals.” In modern medicine, however, it usually describes the use of medications to treat cancer. These drugs work by impairing cells’ ability to divide into more cells. Because cancer cells divide and grow at abnormal or uncontrolled rates, they tend to be more affected by chemotherapy than normal cells, most of which divide more slowly and normally.

Treating many types of cancer... while requiring detailed care.

But chemotherapy does affect all cells, particularly those that divide and replicate at a high rate. And certain normal cells have a high rate of growth and replication. This leads to side effects and requires that the risks and potential benefits be carefully assessed and monitored throughout treatment. Yet, its systemic effects also mean that chemotherapy can treat many types of cancer.

A range of uses & effectiveness to consider for each patient.

There are hundreds of chemotherapy drugs and a variety of ways they can be used in the treatment of cancer. Depending on the cancer, how early or advanced it is, the patient’s health history and other factors, chemotherapy drugs may be used alone or in combination. They may also be used as the sole treatment or before or after surgery or radiation treatment. Choosing an effective treatment plan and managing side effects require experience and dedication.

Working to ensure the best results from your treatment.

At Austin Cancer Centers & Georgetown Cancer Center in Central Texas, we work with experienced, knowledgeable chemotherapy specialists who share our commitments to patient safety and optimal treatment outcomes. As coordinators of your care, we collaborate with these and other physicians to ensure the most effective and appropriate treatment plan. Because we lead with our hearts, we bring a level of compassion and personal dedication that have helped us to become leaders in cancer care over the past 30 years.

To learn more about cancer, chemotherapy or our 30-year history of helping Austin fight cancer, call Austin Cancer Centers or Georgetown Cancer Center in Central Texas today at 512.623.5269 or 512.763.3851 or use our Online Appointment Request Form.