Biological Therapy
Biological therapy is a treatment that uses drugs to improve the way your body’s immune system fights disease. Your immune system is your body’s natural defense against disease. A healthy and strong immune system can detect the difference between healthy cells and cancer cells. Biological therapy attempts to strengthen and improve your natural immune system so that it can fight the cancer more effectively.
Interferon is the most common form of biological therapy. Interferons interfere with the division of cancer cells and can slow their growth. There are several types of interferons, and they are normally produced in the body. For the use of biological therapy, interferons are made in the laboratory. Other possible biological therapies include interleukin and monoclonal antibodies (MABs). Often given as part of a research study, this treatment may be combined with radiation and chemotherapy.
Most biological therapies are given by injection into a vein. They are frequently given in combination with chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Possible side effects include:
- Red, sore area where injection was given
- Flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, gastrointestinal upset)
- Fatigue
- Allergic reactions (cough, wheezing, skin rash)
- Confusion, disorientation, depression
Special Considerations
These treatments can cause extreme fatigue. It is important to get as much rest as possible when your body is fighting cancer. Talk with your doctor about how best you can minimize side effects and the discomforts that come with treatment. Also make certain that you do not take any medications (prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal supplements) without first checking with the physician in charge of your biological therapy.