What Are Chemotherapy Drugs, and How Do They Work in Cancer Treatment?

Question

I recently started learning about chemotherapy drugs, and I was surprised by how many different types exist. From what I understand, chemotherapy is a treatment that uses drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells, but how exactly do these drugs work, and why do they cause side effects?

I read that chemotherapy drugs can be classified into different types, such as alkylating agents, antimetabolites, topoisomerase inhibitors, and targeted therapy drugs, but how do doctors decide which type of chemotherapy is best for a particular cancer?

One thing that concerns me is that chemotherapy often has severe side effects like nausea, hair loss, and immune suppression. What are the best ways to manage chemotherapy side effects naturally and improve the body’s ability to recover?

Are there any Ayurvedic or holistic remedies that help support the body during chemotherapy treatment? I’ve heard that Ashwagandha, Giloy, and Turmeric may help with immune support and inflammation—do these actually work alongside chemotherapy drugs?

If anyone has gone through chemotherapy, what was the treatment like? What helped the most with managing side effects and improving overall well-being during the process?

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

Chemotherapy works by using drugs to target and destroy rapidly growing cells, which include cancer cells. Different chemotherapy drugs work in various ways, such as by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, inhibiting their ability to divide, or interfering with the cell’s ability to repair itself. These drugs can also affect healthy, rapidly dividing cells, leading to common side effects like nausea, hair loss, and immune suppression. The choice of chemotherapy depends on factors like the type of cancer, its stage, and the patient’s overall health. Doctors may use a combination of chemotherapy types to maximize effectiveness. Managing side effects naturally involves techniques like maintaining proper hydration, eating a nutrient-rich diet, and incorporating relaxation methods such as meditation or gentle exercise. Ayurvedic herbs like Ashwagandha, Giloy, and Turmeric may offer immune support and help reduce inflammation, but they should be used cautiously and with medical guidance, as some herbs can interfere with the action of chemotherapy drugs. Many people find relief from side effects through supportive therapies such as acupuncture, massage, or yoga, in addition to conventional treatments. Overall, managing side effects during chemotherapy is about a holistic approach that includes medical care, diet, exercise, and emotional support.

What Are Chemotherapy Drugs, and How Do They Work in Cancer Treatment? - #15459

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