© Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Patient and Family Education Committee. Last revised 6/2020. Page 1 of 2 How to Plan for Cancer Treatment This teaching sheet provides helpful support when you need to begin chemotherapy (chemo) targeted therapy, hormonal therapy, or immunotherapy. Where will you get cancer treatment? You may receive cancer treatment at home, in an outpatient infusion center, or in the hospital. Your cancer care team will decide the best place for you to receive treatment. How is treatment given? There are many ways to receive cancer treatment, including: • Orally, by mouth (liquid, tablet or capsule) • By injection, into the muscle of an arm or leg, or in the abdomen or buttock, or directly into the tumor • As a lotion, over the skin (topically) • Intravenous (IV), through a vein into your bloodstream • Intra-arterial (IA), directly into an artery • Intraperitoneal (IP), directly into a body cavity: bladder, abdomen is most common. Before you begin treatment, take these steps: 1. Check your prescription insurance coverage to see whether it covers your treatment. Talk with your social worker or a financial counselor if you have questions. 2. Talk with your doctor or nurse about any fertility concerns you may have. 3. Visit your dentist to have your teeth cleaned and mouth checked. 4. If you are concerned about hair loss, ask your doctor or nurse if you may want to think about getting a wig or head coverings, and other options. 5. Talk with your doctor or nurse if you need to explore a flexible work schedule with your employer. Before your first treatment: • Make a list of all the medicines you take, including prescriptions, vitamins, herbal supplements, and over-the-counter remedies. Always keep this list up-to-date and with you. • Visit the pharmacy to fill any prescriptions you will need to manage side effects. This includes prescriptions to manage nausea. • Get any over-the-counter medicines that you may need to manage constipation or diarrhea if this pertains to your treatment plan. • Fill any prescriptions needed for your treatment. Some treatments require you to take specific medicines before treatment. It is very important that you take these medicines before your first treatment, following instructions from your doctor or nurse. • Drink plenty of fluids: Try to increase your fluid intake to 6-10 glasses per day, several days before your appointment. What to Expect atYour First Infusion Appointment Find tips on: • What to bring • How your medicines are made • How you may feel during and after • What to expect during the process https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/treatment/chemotherapy/infusion Visit our website to watch a video and learn more about how to prepare for your first infusion appointment at Dana-Farber. Your cancer team will work closely with you to manage your health and help you get the treatment you need.
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