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Short and Long-Term Side Effects of Immunotherapy

Side effects of immunotherapy are unique to each person and treatment.

For some people, immunotherapy side effects last for a short time. For others, they last through the end of treatment and beyond.

Your UPMC Hillman Cancer Center oncologist will discuss the side effects of immunotherapy with you in detail.

Managing Immunotherapy Side Effects

Your doctor might give you medicine to prevent or decrease some of your side effects. In some cases, your doctor may change or stop your immunotherapy treatment.

Some ways to ease your symptoms and manage side effects of immunotherapy include:

  • Maintaining a healthy diet.
  • Getting enough rest.
  • Reducing alcohol use.
  • Quitting smoking.
  • Getting enough exercise.

Making sure you have social and emotional support can also help you during cancer treatment.

Your cancer care team will keep a close watch your health during immunotherapy. They'll work with you to reduce any side effects and suggest other ways to maintain your overall wellbeing.

Contact Us About Medical Oncology and Chemotherapy

To learn more about medical oncology and chemotherapy or to make an appointment, you can: