Side effects of chemotherapy

Most chemotherapy side effects are temporary, but some people are affected months or years after treatment.

About side effects of chemotherapy

Chemotherapy drugs cause side effects. Find out more about the general side effects of chemotherapy drugs.

Late side effects of chemotherapy

Most chemotherapy side effects are temporary and disappear once your treatment is over. For some people, chemotherapy can cause long term changes in the body months or years after treatment.

Cognitive changes (chemo brain)

Cognitive changes include problems with memory, concentration and how a person can think. It is also known as chemo brain or chemo fog.

DPD deficiency

Having a DPD deficiency could make the side effects of the chemotherapy drugs fluorouracil and capecitabine worse.

Last reviewed: 
02 Jul 2020
Next review due: 
02 Jul 2023