Chemotherapy is the use of anti-cancer (cytotoxic) drugs to destroy cancer cells. It works by disrupting the growth and division of cancer cells. The drugs may be taken as tablets or capsules or by injection into a vein (intravenously).

Chemotherapy is not as good at treating kidney cancer as some other treatments such as biological treatments. But you may be offered chemotherapy as part of a trial of new drugs, or in combination with a biological treatment. Fluorouracil (5FU) is one of the most commonly used chemotherapy drugs for treating renal cell kidney cancer. It is usually given in combination with interferon and aldesleukin.

Common side effects of chemotherapy drugs can include feeling more tired than usual and a temporary increase in your risk of infection. Other side effects may include feeling sick (nausea), vomiting and hair loss. Your doctor or nurse will tell you what problems, if any, to expect from your treatment.