The aim of chemotherapy is to destroy any cancer cells that may have spread from the breast to other parts of the body. Chemotherapy is usually given after surgery and before radiotherapy in primary breast cancer (although it can be given before surgery). It usually starts three to four weeks after surgery, giving the body some time to recover from the effects of the operation. It may also be given as a stand alone treatment in secondary breast cancer. Chemotherapy for breast cancer is usually given as a series of treatments every two to four weeks over a period of four to six months. This can vary, depending on the type of breast cancer and the combination of drugs used.

The gap between courses of treatment gives the body time to recover from any short-term side effects that might occur. Chemotherapy is normally given as an outpatient but individuals will probably be at the hospital for most of the day. Patients will also need to attend outpatient and blood test appointments during their chemotherapy treatment. Chemotherapy affects people in different ways. The side effects can depend on the patient’s individual situation and the specific drugs being used. Two people receiving the same combination of drugs may feel completely different during the course of their treatment. Some people experience very few side effects and are able to continue with their usual activities while others find their lives are affected to varying degrees. Some of the most common side effects are susceptibility to infection, nausea and vomiting, sore mouth, mouth ulcers, tiredness and hair loss or thinning.