Length of IV Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is most often given by IV infusion (through a flexible tube placed in a vein). Depending on the type and number of medications, the length of your IV treatment may range from hours to days.

Chemotherapy is often given in an outpatient setting.

Your IV Experience

To make this time more pleasant, wear comfortable clothes. You can also read or listen to music. Following are the most common types of IV treatment:

• Short infusion may last a few minutes to 8 hours. This type of infusion is often given in an outpatient setting. This may be in a hospital, at a clinic, or at your doctor's office. Sometimes it's given at home with the help of a visiting nurse.

• Long infusion may last for 8 hours or more. It may require an overnight stay or one or more days at the hospital. In some cases, long infusions may be given at home.

• Continuous infusion may last for days or weeks at a time. The medications are delivered by a portable pump that can be worn at home. This allows patients to receive chemotherapy and continue normal activities at the same time.