Understanding Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses strong medicines to kill cancer cells. At KCC, we make treatment easier to understand, safer, and more comfortable for you and your family.

Patient receiving chemotherapy in a comfortable day-care setting

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What is Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy is a treatment that uses strong medicines to kill cancer cells. It is especially helpful when cancer has spread to different parts of the body, while surgery or radiation usually treat one area. Depending on your cancer type and stage, chemotherapy can cure cancer, control its growth, or relieve symptoms.

Simple example: Think of chemotherapy as medicine that fights cancer cells to help you feel better or even remove the cancer.

How Does Chemotherapy Work?

Chemotherapy targets fast-growing cancer cells and stops them from multiplying. It can be given as IV infusions (most common), oral pills, topical creams, or injections into a specific area. Because some healthy cells also grow quickly—like in your mouth, stomach, or hair—side effects can happen. Most side effects improve after treatment ends.

In short: It is a targeted attack on cancer, but some healthy cells may also be affected, which is why you might feel tired or lose hair temporarily.

Is Chemotherapy Right for You?

Your doctor looks at your cancer type and stage, overall health, age, and other conditions to decide if chemotherapy is suitable. Goals may be to remove cancer, slow its growth, prevent spread, reduce pain, or shrink a tumor before surgery. If chemotherapy is not the best choice for you, other treatments—such as radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or brachytherapy—may be recommended.

Example: For advanced cancers or when there is risk of spread, chemotherapy may be part of your plan.

What to Expect After Chemotherapy

We schedule regular chkeck-ups, blood tests, and scans to monitor your recovery and watch for any recurrence or late effects. Lifestyle steps—like not smoking, limiting alcohol, eating a balanced diet, staying active, and managing stress—can support your strength.

Follow-up plan

Your care team will provide a personalized schedule for visits and tests.

Healthy living

Small daily habits can make recovery easier and reduce complications.

Chemo Port (Port‑a‑Cath)

A small device placed under the skin for easy, safer IV access during chemotherapy.

  • Fewer needle sticks
  • Lower vein irritation
  • Reliable for infusions & blood draws
Illustration of a chemo port placed under the skin केमोथेरापी पोर्ट

Continue Your Chemotherapy in Nepal

भारतबाट सुरु गरेको क्यान्सर उपचार नेपालमै जारी राख्न सकिन्छ — हामीले सहयोग गर्छौं।

If you've started chemotherapy in India or abroad, you can safely continue your treatment at KCC. We support a seamless transition with the same global-standard care — now closer to home.

Exact Regimen Matching

We replicate international protocols (FOLFOX, R-CHOP, AC-T, etc.) with precision.

Medical Record Review

Share your treatment summary — we’ll align your next cycles perfectly.

Coordination with Indian Hospitals

We can communicate with your prior oncologist with your consent.

No Compromise on Quality

Same drugs, same standards — with personalized Nepali-language care.

“I completed 3 cycles in Mumbai and continued the rest at KCC. The care was just as good — and much more comfortable being close to family.”

— Binda Pr., Breast Cancer Survivor

👉 Bring your chemo summary, prescriptions, and scan reports for a smooth handover.

Transfer My Treatment to KCC

Common Chemotherapy Regimens at KCC

Our center provides evidence-based chemotherapy protocols following international guidelines. Below are some of the common regimens we administer:

FOLFOX

(Folinic acid, Fluorouracil, Oxaliplatin)

Commonly used for colorectal cancers. Administered as a 46-hour continuous infusion every 2 weeks.

Paclitaxel/Carboplatin

(Taxol + Paraplatin)

First-line treatment for ovarian, lung, and other cancers. Typically given every 3 weeks.

FLOT

(Fluorouracil, Leucovorin, Oxaliplatin, Docetaxel)

Used for gastric and gastroesophageal cancers. Administered every 2 weeks.

AC-T

(Doxorubicin, Cyclophosphamide followed by Paclitaxel)

Common regimen for breast cancer, given over multiple cycles.

R-CHOP

(Rituximab, Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin, Vincristine, Prednisone)

Standard treatment for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, typically given every 3 weeks.

FOLFIRI

(Folinic acid, Fluorouracil, Irinotecan)

Used for metastatic colorectal cancer, often in combination with targeted therapies.

These are just some examples of the many chemotherapy regimens available at KCC. Your oncologist will determine the most appropriate protocol based on your specific cancer type, stage, and overall health.


Safe & Certified Chemotherapy Preparation at KCC

At Kathmandu Cancer Center, your safety always comes first. Every chemotherapy medicine is prepared in a modern, ISO-certified clean cabinet under the supervision of trained clinical pharmacists. This ensures that every dose you receive is sterile, accurate, and completely safe.

  • 100% sterile preparation – No risk of contamination
  • Clinical pharmacists double-check every dose
  • Internationally certified process the same safety standards used in leading cancer hospitals worldwide

Our preparation lab meets international biosafety standards — just like top cancer centers in India and abroad.

Chemotherapy in Nepal vs India: Quality, Cost & Convenience

Many patients are choosing to return to Nepal for treatment. Here’s how KCC compares:

Factor Nepal (KCC) India (Metro Cities)
Avg. Cost per Cycle NPR 10,000 – 50,000
(~$75–$400)
₹10,000 – ₹1,00,000
(~$75–$700)
Language Support Nepali & English Mostly English/Hindi
Travel & Stay Treatment from home with family Hotels, travel costs add up
Protocol Accuracy NCCN/ESMO guidelines followed Same international protocols
Drug Sourcing Mostly imported from India/Bangaladesh Same
Continuity of Care Personalized follow-up & counseling Often fragmented, travel for followup

💡 You get global-standard care at a fraction of the cost — and the comfort of being at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I continue my chemotherapy from India at KCC?

Yes. We regularly accept patients who started treatment in India. Just bring your chemo summary, drug names, and cycle dates. We’ll match your regimen exactly.

Are the chemotherapy drugs in Nepal the same as in India?

Yes. We use internationally sourced, WHO-GMP certified medicines (e.g., imported paclitaxel, carboplatin, rituximab). No compromise on quality.

Do you coordinate with hospitals in India?

We can request records or speak with your prior oncologist with your consent.

Is chemotherapy safer in Nepal?

At KCC, chemo is prepared in an ISO-certified cabinet by clinical pharmacists, following global safety standards — just like in top Indian cancer centers.

Oncology Services

Chemotherapy & Targeted Therapy Available For

Evidence-based regimens and precision therapies delivered by our multidisciplinary team.

किमोथेरापी सम्बन्धी प्रश्नोत्तर

Breast Cancers

Chemotherapy • Targeted therapy • Hormonal therapy

Lung Cancers

Chemo • Targeted (EGFR/ALK/ROS1, etc.) • Immunotherapy

Soft Tissue Sarcoma & Bone Cancers

Protocol-based chemotherapy

Blood Cancer, Hodgkin’s & Non‑Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

Chemotherapy • Immunotherapy/Targeted

Gastric (Stomach), Hepato‑Biliary & Pancreatic Cancers

Systemic chemo-therapy & targeted options

Esophagus, Colon & Rectum Cancers

Chemo • Targeted/biologic therapy

Cancers of Ovary, Uterus, etc.

Platinum-based regimens • Targeted therapy like Bevacizumab

Treatment plans are individualized after specialist consultation and staging work‑up.

Book Appointment

Side Effects of Chemotherapy

Common short-term effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, fever, mouth sores, pain, constipation, easy bruising, and hair loss. Some medicines can also cause long-term or late effects such as lung or heart problems, infertility, kidney issues, nerve tingling (peripheral neuropathy), or a small increase in second cancer risk. Not everyone has the same side effects—your team will explain what to expect and how to manage them.

Side Effect What It Feels Like How KCC Helps
Nausea/Vomiting Upset stomach soon after chemo Modern anti‑nausea medicines and diet tips
Fatigue Feeling very tired Energy‑saving plans, gentle activity, treat anemia if needed
Mouth Sores Painful mouth/throat ulcers Mouth rinses, pain relief, infection prevention
Hair Loss Thinning or falling hair Scalp Cooling System (where available), headwear options
Infection Risk Low immunity (neutropenia) Growth factor support, fever precautions, quick access to care
Important: If you have a fever of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher, contact us immediately.

Advantage of Chemotherapy at KCC

We provide comprehensive chemotherapy services through both our comfortable day-care unit and specialized inpatient facilities. Our experienced oncologists and nurses administer advanced protocols like dose-dense regimens when appropriate. Every plan is personalized to your needs, with clear explanations and continuous support.

Day Care Chemotherapy

Our modern day-care unit provides comfortable treatment in a welcoming environment where patients receive chemotherapy and return home the same day.

  • Comfortable private and public rooms
  • WiFi access
  • Family members can accompany patients

Inpatient Chemotherapy

For more complex regimens or patients needing closer monitoring, we offer specialized inpatient chemotherapy services with 24/7 medical supervision.

  • Continuous monitoring by oncology nurses
  • Management of complex side effects
  • Multi-day infusion protocols
  • Immediate access to supportive care

Dedicated Team

Medical, hemato-oncology, nursing, pharmacy, and counselors working together for you.

Modern Protocols

Evidence-based regimens, supportive care, and safety monitoring every cycle.

Comfort & Dignity

Comfortable chairs/beds, privacy screens, and family-friendly spaces.

Other options at KCC: classical chemotherapy, molecular targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Your oncologist will guide you on the best combination.



Cost of Chemotherapy in Nepal

Costs vary depending on the cancer type, medicines used, and number of cycles. As a general guide, many regimens may range from NPR 10,000–50,000 per session. Your doctor will prepare a treatment estimate after your consultation.

Financial Support

Ask about available government support and insurance or payment options like Sanchaya Kosh or SSF etc. Our team can guide you through paperwork.

Treatment Estimate

Get a personalized estimate after your first visit. Bring previous reports to help us plan accurately.

Prices are indicative and may change with medicine brand, availability, and supportive care needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a chemo session take?

It depends on the medicines—some take 30–60 minutes, others several hours. Your nurse will tell you the expected time for your regimen.

Can I work during chemotherapy?

Many people can continue light work or study on non‑treatment days. Listen to your body and discuss any adjustments with your doctor.

Will I lose my hair?

Some medicines cause hair loss while others do not. Scalp cooling may help reduce hair loss for certain regimens.

What should I bring on chemo day?

Bring ID, medical records, snacks/water, a warm shawl, and any regular medicines. A family member can make the day easier.

Book an Appointment

Speak with our oncology team to discuss your diagnosis and plan the right treatment.

For faster planning, please bring previous reports (biopsy, scans, blood tests etc).

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