Understanding chemotherapy - Macmillan Cancer

How chemotherapy is givenIf a chemotherapy drug leaksIf a drug leaks into the area around the vein while being given,it’s called extravasation. This is uncommon but can happen if acannula dislodges so that it isn’t correctly positioned in the vein.It rarely happens with a central line.Your nurse will be very careful to prevent extravasationwhen giving your chemotherapy. If you notice any swelling,pain, stinging or redness during your treatment session tellthem immediately. Or, if any of these problems developafter you get home, contact the hospital straight away.Some chemotherapy drugs can damage the tissues, and it’simportant that extravasation is dealt with straight away.See page 41 for what to do if chemotherapy leaks out ofa pump.Other ways of giving chemotherapyThis section is about other ways chemotherapy can be given(apart from intravenously). Your chemotherapy nurse or cancerdoctor will explain more about this.By mouthSome chemotherapy drugs are taken as tablets or capsules.This is just as effective as other types of chemotherapy.The drug is absorbed into your blood and carried aroundyour body just like intravenous chemotherapy.You’ll be told when to take your chemotherapy tabletsor capsules and given other instructions, such as whetheror not to take them with food.37