Your doctor and care team may regularly test your blood to make sure your body is tolerating the chemotherapy (chemo).

Blood Tests

Chemo doses are frequently computed based on your height and weight, as well as on the results of kidney and liver tests. For this reason, you will have plenty of tests before, during, and after chemo.

Getting your blood drawn is a normal part of most chemo treatments, as your doctor needs to make sure your blood counts are at a good level. If your red cell, white cell, or platelet counts get too low or stay too low, you can have serious problems. Your doctor may require you to be hospitalized to treat these serious chemo side effects.

Support Medications

Chemo will likely be given with other support medications to help with chemo side effects. For instance, you may receive a medication that prevents nausea and vomiting.

You can ask questions during your treatment about the medications you are given:
  • What medication is this?
  • What does it do? What is it for?
  • How does it work?
  • What chemo side effects might it cause or prevent?
  • How can I further minimize chemo side effects from chemo treatment?
  • Who do I call if I have problems later, or don't feel well?
  • The Chemotherapy and Infection Discussion Guide can help you understand your
    risk of infection

    Infection can be a serious side effect of strong chemo. Find out the factors that affect your risk of infection. Simply answer a few questions, and then print your results to share with your doctor.

    Use the Chemotherapy and Infection Discussion Guide to find out more.