Chemotherapy for Bowel Cancer

Chemotherapy uses medicines to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. For bowel cancer, chemotherapy may be used before surgery, after surgery, with radiation therapy or when cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

This article is for general information only. Your oncologist and healthcare team can explain whether chemotherapy is recommended for you and what treatment schedule applies.

Why Chemotherapy May Be Used

Chemotherapy may be used for different reasons. It may help shrink a tumour before surgery, reduce the risk of cancer returning after surgery, treat cancer that has spread or help control symptoms.

The reason depends on the type of bowel cancer, stage, test results and overall health.

Chemotherapy Before Surgery

In some cases, chemotherapy may be given before surgery. This is sometimes called neoadjuvant treatment. It may be used to shrink a tumour or make treatment more effective.

For rectal cancer, chemotherapy may sometimes be combined with radiation therapy.

Chemotherapy After Surgery

Chemotherapy after surgery is sometimes called adjuvant chemotherapy. It may be recommended to reduce the risk of cancer returning, especially if the cancer had features that suggest a higher risk.

Your oncologist can explain why chemotherapy is or is not recommended in your case.

Chemotherapy for Advanced Bowel Cancer

If bowel cancer has spread, chemotherapy may help slow the growth of cancer, shrink tumours or control symptoms. It may be used alone or with targeted therapy in selected cases.

For more information, read our Treatment for Advanced Bowel Cancer article.

How Chemotherapy Is Given

Chemotherapy may be given through a vein, as tablets or through a central line depending on the medicines used. It is usually given in cycles, with treatment periods and rest periods.

Your medical team will explain your schedule, medicines and what side effects to watch for.

Possible Side Effects

Side effects vary depending on the chemotherapy drugs, dose and individual response. Possible effects may include tiredness, nausea, diarrhoea, mouth sores, appetite changes, infection risk, skin changes, numbness or tingling in the hands and feet.

Always ask your healthcare team which symptoms need urgent medical attention.

Preparing for Chemotherapy

Before starting chemotherapy, ask about side effects, medicines to manage symptoms, infection precautions, food and drink advice, work, driving and who to contact after hours.

You may find our Bowel Cancer Questions to Ask Your Doctor article useful.

Final Thoughts

Chemotherapy for bowel cancer can be used in several ways, depending on the diagnosis and treatment plan. Understanding the goal, schedule and possible side effects can help you feel more prepared.

For treatment decisions, read our Making Treatment Decisions guide.