by Trenna Sue Hiler

Created on: January 25, 2009

Chemotherapy drugs are not all the same. They can be divided into several groups based on chemical structures, how they work, and even how they relate to other medications. Understanding what kind of chemotherapy is being administered can help the patient understand and take an active part in the their medical decisions.

Alkylating agents are used to attack and damage the DNA to prevent cancer cells from reproducing.

Antimetabolites interfere with DNA and RNA growth by substituting for normal substances for DNA and RNA.

Anthracyclines are anti tumor antibiotics. They attack the enzymes that are involved with DNA duplication.

These are in no way all the options, but it does tell us that all chemotherapy is not the same and all the side effects won't be the same.

Chemotherapy covers a number of treatments and the experience is very individual and different from patient to patient. There are many contributing factors. The health of the patient, the attitude of the patient and the severity of the cancer are all part of the equation. All the drugs have different purposes and often chemotherapy is essentially and cocktail of drug combinations.

The most common side effects of chemotherapy are:
*Fatigue
*Pain
*Hair Loss
*Nausea
*Vomiting
*Anemia
*Infection
*Blood Clotting Problems
*Mouth, Gum and Throat Problems
*Diarrhea and Constipation
*Nerve and Muscle Effects
*Effects on Skin and Nails
*Intestinal problems
*Bladder irritation
*Sexuality and fertility issues

It is vital to know that many people suffer no long-term problems from the chemotherapy. The severity of the side effects varies so greatly from patient to patient that it important to approach the treatment with the right attitude. Chemotherapy is not going to last forever. If you and your physician have reviewed all the pros and cons you are probably prepared for the worst, but hope for the best. There are many things that can help patients through the side effects if they are verbal and report what is happening. Asking questions is a part of being a good advocate of your own care.

No one is happy with a diagnosis of cancer and yet we live in a time where the options are many and the choices truly belong to us, the patient. The key is to get educated and then make the best personal decision for you, the patient. It is your life in your hands. Your doctor will let you know if the side effects are so strong they aren't a viable option.

Be well and seek support.

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