Pancreatic Cancer Chemotherapy

If your pancreatic cancer treatment includes chemotherapy or other types of medical oncology treatments, you are in caring and capable hands. Henry Ford Cancer's attention to safety and patients’ needs has earned our program national recognition. You receive drugs and other substances that prevent or slow cancer cell growth along with the support you deserve.

Pancreatic cancer chemotherapy at Henry Ford: Why choose us?

Chemotherapy experts (medical oncologists) specializing in gastrointestinal cancers, like pancreatic cancer, deliver your care. They use research-based techniques that lead to precise therapies. And our comprehensive approach helps you feel comfortable and cared for throughout treatment.

Highlights of our program include:

• Team of experts: Medical oncologists work with other Henry Ford pancreatic cancer specialists to meticulously plan your care. You benefit from the coordinated recommendations of surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and more. We are in regular communication, tailoring therapies to your changing needs. Meet our team.
• Novel therapies: We are among a select few programs nationwide offering innovative treatments through clinical trials. You also have access to newly approved chemotherapy regimens, giving you more options for healing. Learn more about pancreatic cancer clinical trials and research.
• Focus on safety: Our extended team includes oncology infusion nurses and pharmacists who ensure you receive the correct drug and dose with each visit. They monitor your response to treatment and provide you detailed at-home care instructions. These added steps help you stay comfortable.
• Timely support: Chemotherapy and medical oncology therapies often come with side effects, like vomiting, that can slow your recovery. Our OncoStat clinic provides prompt access to additional treatments, like intravenous (IV) hydration. These therapies can help you feel better and prevent unnecessary emergency room visits or hospitalizations. Same-day appointments make it easier to get the relief you need. 

Types of medical oncology we offer for pancreatic cancer

Your care may include one or more types of medical oncology, including:

• Chemotherapy: Anticancer drugs that slow or stop abnormal cell growth.
• Antitumor antibiotics: Substances that interfere with cancer cell growth at a molecular level
• Biologic therapy: Substances like the pancreatic cancer vaccine (immunotherapy), that train your body’s immune system to attack cancer cells
• Clinical trials: Access to new cancer drugs and medical oncology options (for eligible patients) years before they become widely available

Pancreatic cancer chemotherapy and medical oncology: What to expect

We develop a personalized care plan based on the type of pancreatic cancer and how severe it is. Medical oncologists and nurses explain options in ways that are easier to understand. We ensure you know your treatment plan, potential side effects and how to get help if you need it.

You may receive pancreatic cancer chemotherapy or medical oncology before, after or instead of other therapies:

• Before other treatments: Chemotherapy and other substances may shrink the tumor. This can make it safer for you to receive additional treatments, like radiation therapy or surgery.
• After other treatments: We use certain medical oncology options after treatment. Experts may recommend this approach to eliminate remaining cancer cells. It may also be an option if cancer comes back after treatment.
• Instead of other treatments: Chemotherapy may be right for you if you cannot have other therapies due to advanced cancer or other medical issues. Anticancer drugs can shrink the tumor to help you get symptom relief.

Chemotherapy and other cancer therapies are part of our comprehensive approach. You also have access to Henry Ford’s robust supportive care services, including nutrition counseling, emotional support and more. Find out more about pancreatic cancer support services.