Chemotherapy may be given in several ways. The route of administration selected by your doctor will depend on the type of chemotherapy drug or drugs you will receive, how good your veins may be, or whether you are able to comply with an oral chemotherapy regimen. The most frequently used ways of giving chemotherapy are oral and intravenously, either via a peripheral vein or a central vein.
Compliance is very important with prescribed oral agents.
Chemotherapy is administered either into a peripheral vein using a small needle or a special catheter placed into a large central vein by a doctor and kept in place for as long as necessary. Chemotherapy may also be administered to a specific area of the body. A catheter may be placed into the abdomen, spinal fluid, bladder or liver and chemotherapy given specifically to that area. Use of our site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Use . Advocate Health Care respects your privacy.