Biologics
Rely on Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula for high-quality care while you receive biologic therapy to treat cancer.
What Are biologics?
Biological drugs include a wide range of medications that can:
- Target and kill cancer cells or slow their growth
- Strengthen your body’s immune system to fight cancer
- Help you recover from cancer treatment
Your care team may recommend biologics if cancer has spread (metastasized) in the body. You’ll likely receive biologic therapy with other treatments, such as chemotherapy.
What to expect
You may receive biologics through:
- Injections
- IV, or intravenously
If your care team recommends a combination of biological drugs, you may receive them through both methods.
How long does treatment last?
Your treatment may last three to six months and include four to eight cycles. A cycle includes the amount of time you receive treatment and the rest period that follows. Taking time to rest helps your body heal from the side effects of biologics.
Your doctors will carefully plan your treatment schedule, so you reach the best possible results.
Vascular access device (VAD) for biologics
Your doctor may implant a vascular access device (VAD) to make it easier for you to receive biologics through an IV. A VAD is a catheter (hollow tube) placed in a large vein in the chest. Having a VAD means your care team won’t need to place an IV in smaller, more fragile veins.
When you receive biologics, the medication travels through the VAD into your bloodstream. The amount of time each treatment session takes depends on different factors.
You may have the VAD for a few months. Your doctor will remove the device after you complete your treatment sessions.
Side effects of biologics
Count on our experienced staff to help you quickly identify side effects and offer relief. Some patients don’t experience any side effects.
