What is a common route for administering chemotherapy?

Administering chemotherapy via the intravenous (IV) route is one of the most common methods due to several key reasons. The IV route allows for direct access to the bloodstream, enabling rapid distribution of the chemotherapy agents throughout the body. This is particularly important for treating cancers, as it ensures that the medication reaches cancerous cells more quickly and effectively.

Additionally, some chemotherapy drugs can cause irritation or damage to veins, so skilled administration via IV can also help monitor and manage any potential adverse reactions during the infusion process. This method is particularly beneficial in maintaining the necessary dosage and timing of treatments, which is crucial for maximizing therapeutic effects while minimizing toxicities.

In contrast, oral administration is limited by factors like absorption variability and the patient’s ability to tolerate oral medications. Subcutaneous and topical routes are less common for chemotherapy because they are generally not suitable for systemic treatment, which is often necessary in oncology where the disease may have spread beyond localized areas.