Toxicity means a destructive effect on cells.
Chemotherapy (i.e., the use of chemo drugs) can be a very effective part of the treatment of breast cancer. Chemotherapy drugs work by having destructive (i.e., toxic) effects on cells that divide rapidly, such as cancer cells. The toxic effects on cancer cells are a part of the toxicity (and rationale for use) of chemotherapy drugs.
However, cancer cells are not the only cells that divide rapidly in the body. For example, normal cells in the bone marrow, cells lining the intestine, and cells in hair follicles also divide rapidly. Unfortunately, the production of healthy cells in these parts of the body also may be affected by certain types of chemotherapy drugs.
Because some chemotherapy drugs can affect the production of healthy cells in these parts of the body, the effect on healthy cells and the symptoms that result also are called a toxic effect, an adverse effect, or a side effect. Thus, the toxic effects on healthy cells are a part of the toxicity of chemotherapy drugs.
Be sure to tell your oncologist if you are experiencing any side effects during chemotherapy. Various medicines and other therapies are available to minimize and manage many of side effects of chemotherapy. See our Q&As on the specific side effect and its management and treatment.
Most of the side effects of chemotherapy usually go away during the recovery period portion of the chemotherapy cycle or after all of the chemotherapy treatment has been completed. Consult your oncologist if you are experiencing any of side effects during the recovery period part of the chemotherapy cycle or after all of the chemotherapy treatment has been completed. Various types of medications and other forms of therapy are available for management of side effects that persist past the completion of chemotherapy.
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