One of the most common chemotherapy regimens for colon cancer is 5-FU based chemotherapy. Patients will most often receive FOLFOX, in which 5-FU is combined with oxaliplatin. There are both intravenous and oral versions of 5-FU, and the oral version is known as capecitabine (Xeloda). In certain cases, additional medications will be added. You should have a discussion with your medical oncologist regarding the specific regimen that is most appropriate for you.
Overall, chemotherapy for colon cancer is well-tolerated. Many patients are able to continue working while only having to take time off around when they receive their treatments. The most common side effects of chemotherapy are related to the GI tract including diarrhea; patients may also experience fatigue, mouth sores, bleeding, and a decrease in white blood cell (WBC) count leading to an increased risk of infection.
Learn more about SurvivorNet's rigorous medical review process.
Dr. Heather Yeo is a medical advisor to SurvivorNet. She is board-certified in general surgery, colon and rectal surgery, and complex general surgical oncology. She is an assistant professor of Surgery and Healthcare Policy and Research at Weill Cornell Medical College and assistant attending surgeon at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. Read More
One of the most common chemotherapy regimens for colon cancer is 5-FU based chemotherapy. Patients will most often receive FOLFOX, in which 5-FU is combined with oxaliplatin. There are both intravenous and oral versions of 5-FU, and the oral version is known as capecitabine (Xeloda). In certain cases, additional medications will be added. You should have a discussion with your medical oncologist regarding the specific regimen that is most appropriate for you.
Overall, chemotherapy for colon cancer is well-tolerated. Many patients are able to continue working while only having to take time off around when they receive their treatments. The most common side effects of chemotherapy are related to the GI tract including diarrhea; patients may also experience fatigue, mouth sores, bleeding, and a decrease in white blood cell (WBC) count leading to an increased risk of infection.
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Learn more about SurvivorNet's rigorous medical review process.
Dr. Heather Yeo is a medical advisor to SurvivorNet. She is board-certified in general surgery, colon and rectal surgery, and complex general surgical oncology. She is an assistant professor of Surgery and Healthcare Policy and Research at Weill Cornell Medical College and assistant attending surgeon at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. Read More
