Infusion Reactions to Cancer Treatment

Infusion reactions are when your body has an immune response to a cancer medicine that is given IV (intravenously). It may also be called an immune reaction or hypersensitivity reaction. Your body thinks the medicine is a threat and is trying to fight it off. An infusion reaction can happen while you’re getting the medicine. It can also be delayed by several hours or days. Reactions can be mild, moderate, or severe.

Some cancer treatments are more likely to cause infusion reactions. These include certain chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy medicines. Ask your provider about the medicines you’re taking and if they’re likely to cause a reaction. Know what symptoms to watch for and when to report them.

Symptoms to look for

If you have any of these symptoms during your infusion, tell your healthcare team right away. If you have symptoms later at home, call your healthcare team right away:

• Wheezing

• Trouble breathing

• Dizziness

• Skin rash or hives

• Itching

• Flushed (red) face

• Fever, chills, or shaking (rigors)

• Swelling of the face, tongue, throat, or any part of the body

• Cough

• Throat tightness or change in voice

• Nausea

• Headache

• New pain

• Fast heart rate

If you have trouble breathing, swelling in your throat or face, or chest pain call 911 or go to the emergency room right away.

How are infusion reactions prevented?

Your healthcare team may give you medicines before you receive your infusion. These help prevent a reaction. Take all medicines as instructed by your provider. Your healthcare team will also monitor you closely during your infusion. They will ask how you’re feeling and check your vital signs. This helps catch any signs of a reaction early.

How are infusion reactions treated?

If you have an infusion reaction, your healthcare team will stop your infusion. Treatment depends on how severe your reaction is. Your healthcare team may give you IV fluids. They may also give you other medicines to stop the reaction. Your provider may restart the infusion later the same day, delay the infusion until a future appointment, change your medicine dose, or change your medicine.

Having an infusion reaction can be scary. Be sure to report any concerns to your healthcare team. Know that they’ll help you every step of the way and keep you safe.