What Can I Expect With Immunotherapy?

How is immunotherapy administered and what are the side effects? Get answers to these questions and more in this video, with Jennifer Caudle, DO.

Transcript

00:00

LISA: Hi there, Dr. Caudle. My doctor thinks immunotherapy might be the best to treat non-small-cell lung cancer.

00:09

What can I expect in terms of treatment? How is it administered? Are there any side effects?

00:17

Hey, Lisa, those are really awesome questions. You know, everyone wants to know what if any side effects might occur during treatment.

00:23

And it's so great to be proactive. So thanks for asking.

00:31

There are several types of immunotherapy. And they're given in different ways. Depending on the type of therapy you'll be receiving, it may be delivered intravenously,

00:40

using an IV, or orally in a pill or a capsule. Typically, immunotherapy is administered in your doctor's

00:47

office or an outpatient clinic.

00:54

In general, immunotherapy may cause reactions on the skin at the needle site if it's delivered intravenously.

01:01

Things like pain, or swelling, even soreness, redness, or a rash might occur. Some may experience what's called an infusion

01:09

reaction to immunotherapy. This can include fever, chills, itchy skin, feelings of dizziness, and trouble breathing.

01:16

If you have any of these symptoms, it's important to tell your doctor or nurse right away. This is not an exhaustive list of potential side effects.

01:24

So make sure you talk to your doctor about any changes you notice or side effects you think may be a result of the immunotherapy.