by Carson-DeWitt R

Chemotherapy (chemo) drugs are passed through the bloodstream to destroy cancer cells. It is generally not used to treat thyroid cancer. Chemo may be used after surgery for anaplastic thyroid cancer. It is used with radiation therapy—if cancer has not spread beyond the thyroid.

Chemo may also be used to ease symptoms or prolong life when other treatments fail.

Chemotherapy Drugs and Delivery

There are many different chemo drugs. The choice and mix will be based on the cancer. Chemotherapy drugs for thyroid cancer may include:

  • Doxorubicin
  • Paclitaxel
  • Docetaxel
  • Cisplatin
  • Carboplatin

Chemo for thyroid cancer is often given by IV. Some forms can be given by mouth. It is given in cycles over a set period of time. The doctor determines the number of chemo cycles and best mix of drugs.

Side Effects and Management

The drugs are to kill cancer cells. But they can affect healthy cells as well. The effects of both can cause side effects. The doctor works to find the best drug mix. The goal is to impact cancer cells with the least effects on healthy cells. Side effects or problems from chemo may include:

  • Numbness, pain, or burning sensation in the hands and feet—peripheral neuropathy
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Tiredness due to anemia
  • Low blood cell counts (white cells or platelets) that can lead to infection or bleeding
  • Confusion, forgetfulness
  • Kidney, liver, and/or heart damage

A variety of treatments can help manage side effects. This includes medicine, lifestyle changes, and alternative treatments. Sometimes chemo may be adjusted to ease severe side effects. Addressing side effects early helps control them better. It also eases discomfort.

References

Anaplastic thyroid cancer. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/anaplastic-thyroid-cancer. Accessed April 20, 2022.

General information about thyroid cancer. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/thyroid/patient/thyroid-treatment-pdq. Updated Accessed April 20, 2022.

Follicular thyroid cancer. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/follicular-thyroid-cancer-21. Accessed April 20, 2022.

Medullary thyroid cancer. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/medullary-thyroid-cancer. Accessed April 20, 2022.

Papillary thyroid cancer. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/papillary-thyroid-cancer. Accessed April 20, 2022.

Thyroid cancer treatment (adult). National Cancer Institute website. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/thyroid/patient/thyroid-treatment-pdq#section/%5F67. Accessed April 20, 2022.

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