How Immunotherapy Is Used To Treat Cancer

Common Side Effects Of Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy, like any other treatment, comes with potential side effects, though most are mild and taper off once the body adjusts to the treatment. Additionally, side effects from immunotherapy tend to be fewer than those from other cancer treatments. The side effects patients experience and their severity depend on the type of immunotherapy treatment or combination of treatments, the dosage, how the patient is receiving the treatment (e.g., orally or intravenously), and the patient’s overall health.

The most common side effects all fall under the ‘flu-like’ classification, and include fever, chills, nausea, loss of appetite, as well as body aches and pains. These symptoms tend to occur shortly after receiving the immunotherapy treatment. Reports indicate taking medicine such as acetaminophen and receiving immunotherapy before bed can help the body adjust and minimize these symptoms. Other side effects include fatigue, which often accompanies the flu-like symptoms, and skin reactions, such as itchy skin, redness, swelling, or a rash. Patients should inform their doctors of any side effects so they can adjust dosages, prescribe medicines, or change the immunotherapy treatment as needed.

Read on for information on some of the rare, but serious side effects of immunotherapy.