Dismiss Modal

Treatment

Chemotherapy: If You Are Considering It

Choose a preferred language


Questions for the healthcare provider

  • What is chemotherapy and how does it work?

  • What is chemotherapy used for?

  • Why do I need this treatment?

  • What medicines will I be taking? How often? For how long? What will they do?

  • What are the goals of chemotherapy for me?

  • How soon do I need to start treatment?

  • How effective is the treatment likely to be for me?

  • How will I know the chemotherapy is working?

  • What are the risks of taking chemotherapy?

  • Where will I get treatment? Should I bring anything with me?

  • Will I be able to drive myself or take public transportation to and from treatment?

  • Who will give me the treatment?

  • Should I do anything to prepare for treatment?

  • Can I take my other medicines during treatment?

  • Do I need other treatments as well?

  • What are the short- and long-term side effects that I can expect?

  • How long will the side effects last?

  • Will there be side effects I need to call you about? How do I get help on evenings, weekends, or holidays?

  • What can I do to ease or prevent the side effects?

  • Will I be able to have children after chemo?

  • Will I be able to go to work and be around my family?

  • Will I need to change my diet or activities in any way? Are there foods I should not eat?

  • Are there support groups that I can join?

  • How much will it cost? Will my insurance cover it?

  • Should I get a second opinion?

  • Are there any clinical trials I should look for?

Featured in

© 2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions.

Find a doctor that's right for you.

From routine check-ups to groundbreaking treatments and beyond, Crestner Health is here to help you live your healthiest life.

Search our doctors
Related Articles
Read article
Oncology
Adrenal Cancer: Treatment Choices

There are several treatment choices for adrenal cancer. Which may work best for you? It depends on a few factors.

Read article
Oncology
Easing the Journey: Support for Side Effects During Cancer Treatment

Side effects during cancer treatment can be difficult and frustrating. But there are things you can do to help minimize them.

Read article
Oncology
Pituitary Tumor: Treatment Choices

In most cases, pituitary tumors are treated using surgery, radiation therapy, or medicines. Learn more about these choices.

Read article
Oncology
Lung Cancer: Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy uses medicines that target specific parts of cancer cells or nearby cells that would normally help the cancer grow and spread. Targeted medicines can sometimes be more helpful than standard chemotherapy (chemo) medicines.