R-CHOP is a combination treatment commonly used as the first-line therapy for Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL), a fast-growing type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The name is made up of the first letters of each drug in the combination:
- R β Rituximab, an immunotherapy drug that helps the immune system target lymphoma Show Full Answer
R-CHOP is a combination treatment commonly used as the first-line therapy for Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL), a fast-growing type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The name is made up of the first letters of each drug in the combination:
- R β Rituximab, an immunotherapy drug that helps the immune system target lymphoma cells
- C β Cyclophosphamide, a chemotherapy drug that damages cancer cell DNA
- H β Doxorubicin (hydroxydaunorubicin), a chemotherapy drug that kills cancer cells
- O β Vincristine (formerly Oncovin), a chemotherapy drug that interferes with cancer cell growth
- P β Prednisone, a steroid that reduces inflammation and helps kill cancer cells Treatment is typically given in 6 cycles, once every 21 days, though the exact number depends on the individual case. Most drugs are given intravenously (through a vein), except prednisone, which is taken as a tablet.
R-CHOP is effective for many people, with studies showing it can cure around 60β70% of newly diagnosed DLBCL cases. Like most treatments, R-CHOP can cause side effects. Common ones include:
- Lowered blood cell counts
- Hair loss
- Digestive issues (nausea, constipation, diarrhea)
- Numbness or tingling in limbs
- Swollen limbs
- Fatigue
Always let the care team know about any side effects, as adjustments can often be made to help manage them.
August 13