8 Things to Know Before Your First Chemo Treatment

What Side Effects to Expect, What You Should Eat, and More

Updated on April 30, 2024

Medically reviewed by Doru Paul, MD

Prepare for your first chemo treatment by knowing what side effects to expect, which questions to ask about medications, what to eat before, and more.

Your care team will discuss your chemotherapy plan in advance, which can help ease your anxiety.

Here are eight things to help you through your first chemotherapy treatment. Knowing these tips and the side effects to expect will make you feel more confident and prepared going into your first session.

Chemotherapy patient — Simon Jarratt / Corbis/VCG / Getty Images

1

Ask About the Chemo Medications

Every chemotherapy infusion includes a mix of drugs. Some are cancer-killing drugs, while others are medications that help ease side effects.

If you're not already clear about the answers to the following questions, ask your healthcare provider:

What are the medications included in my treatment?
How does the treatment help kill cancer cells?
What side effects may it have?
How will I feel after taking the medication?
How should I cope with it?
Who do I call if I have problems?

While some infusions take minutes, others take hours. A course may take days or weeks. Ask how you should plan for the treatments that await you.

Summary

Following these eight tips throughout your chemotherapy process can help prevent many treatment-related issues. Always discuss any new or worsening symptoms promptly with your healthcare provider.

Additionally, keep track of any remedies that help your symptoms (for example, using a prescribed anti-nausea medication, taking time to rest, or drinking extra fluids). Such a list can come in handy later if you experience the same issue after a future treatment.