Biological therapy is a newer cancer drug treatment that is quickly gaining in recognition as of 2010. Administered in pill or injectable form, biological therapy provides a much needed boost to the immune system while slowing cancer progression. Baptist Memorial Health Care recommends its use as an adjunct treatment with other traditional cancer treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation, without contraindication. However, biological therapy drugs do have minimal side effects.
Skin Irritation
Skin irritation and swelling at the injection site are the most common side effects reported with biological therapy. According to Baptist Memorial Health Care, these injections may be administered several times a day, weekly or monthly, which may add to the level of irritation. Allergic reaction is also possible, so the cancer team will want to hear about any redness or tenderness associated with the other symptoms. In most situations, the skin irritation will dissipate with time. However, for individuals receiving regular injections, it may be a side effect worth enduring for the benefits.
Flu-Like Symptoms
Biological therapies can cause an individual to exhibit flu-like symptoms as side effects. These side effects, according to Stanford Medicine Cancer Center, can include body aches, chills, fatigue, fever, muscle and bone aches, nausea and vomiting. These side effects are especially common with biological therapies referred to as "cytokine therapy" that use both natural and scientifically engineered cytokines to help the body's immune system fight the cancer. Cytokine therapy serves as an adjunct treatment to chemotherapy and radiation, or as a primary treatment for aggressive melanomas.
Hypotension
Biological therapy can also cause an unsafe drop in blood pressure as a side effect. St. Joseph's Hospital recommends that individuals with heart problems or hypotension discuss their options with their cancer care team prior to beginning a new treatment method. There are several options available: interferon, interleukin, monoclonal antibodies, colony-stimulating factors, cytokines and vaccines. The cancer care team will know the best biological therapy to use.
