Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. Chemotherapy drugs are designed to target and kill rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells, by disrupting their ability to divide and grow.

Chemotherapy can be used alone or in combination with other treatments such as surgery, radiation therapy, or targeted therapy. The treatment regimen and dosage depends on factors such as the type of cancer, the stage of the cancer, the overall health of the patient, and other medical conditions.

There are several ways chemotherapy drugs can be administered. They can be given intravenously through a vein, taken orally in pill form, or delivered through a catheter or port implanted under the skin. The drugs are usually given in cycles, with periods of rest in between to allow the body to recover from the side effects.

While chemotherapy can be effective in killing cancer cells, it can also cause side effects such as fatigue, nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and increased susceptibility to infection. Some patients may also experience long-term side effects such as heart or kidney damage.

Chemotherapy drugs are designed to target rapidly dividing cells, but they can also affect healthy cells in the body that divide quickly, such as those in the hair follicles and gastrointestinal tract. This can lead to side effects such as hair loss and digestive problems.

Despite the potential side effects, chemotherapy remains an important treatment option for many types of cancer, and it has helped to improve survival rates and quality of life for many cancer patients. The choice of chemotherapy regimen and dosage depends on several factors, and it is important for patients to discuss the potential benefits and risks with their healthcare provider.