What Should I Expect During Immunotherapy Treatment?

How Immunotherapy Is Given — Schedule and Monitoring

• ✓Most checkpoint inhibitors are given as an IV infusion, typically every two to three weeks, though the exact schedule depends on your specific drug and treatment plan.
• ✓Blood tests are done before every cycle to monitor your liver, thyroid, kidney, and adrenal function, since immunotherapy can affect these organs even before you notice any symptoms.
• ✓Scans are done periodically, typically every three to four cycles, to see whether the treatment is working and whether the plan needs to change.
• ✓Most patients receive treatment as an outpatient and go home the same day.

Before Starting New Medicines or Supplements

Some medicines and supplements can affect how well immunotherapy works. Always tell your oncologist before starting any new medicine or supplement, even if it is prescribed by another doctor.

• ✓💊Steroids — These may reduce how well immunotherapy works. Sometimes they are necessary, but your oncologist should decide when and how they are used.
• ✓💊Antibiotics — If another doctor prescribes antibiotics, let your oncology team know before starting them whenever possible.
• ✓💊Probiotics and herbal or "immune-boosting" supplements — Don't start these without discussing them with your oncologist first.

This is especially important if the medicine is prescribed by a doctor outside your oncology team, who may not know you are receiving immunotherapy.

How Long Does Treatment Continue?

There's no single answer that applies to every patient — the plan depends on your cancer type, how you respond, and the specific treatment protocol your oncologist is following.

• ✓Some patients are treated for a fixed, defined number of cycles.
• ✓Others continue treatment on an open-ended basis, guided by how the cancer responds on periodic scans.
• ✓Some patients stop treatment after a defined period even while still responding well, based on evolving evidence.

What Is Common During Immunotherapy?

Most patients tolerate immunotherapy well and continue many of their usual daily activities. Knowing what's normal can help you avoid worrying about every new symptom.

• ✓Mild fatigue — The most common side effect. It's usually a low-grade tiredness rather than the severe exhaustion often seen with chemotherapy.
• ✓Mild skin changes — Dryness, itching, or a mild rash are common. A fragrance-free moisturiser is often enough to help.
• ✓Joint or muscle aches — Mild stiffness or aching, especially in the hands, knees, or shoulders, can occur. Gentle movement often helps more than complete rest.
• ✓Thyroid changes — These may cause fatigue, weight changes, or feeling unusually hot or cold. Regular blood tests often detect these changes before symptoms develop.
• ✓Continuing daily life — Many patients continue working, travelling, and carrying on their normal routines throughout treatment.

Most of these side effects are mild and manageable. Mention them at your next visit so we can help you treat them.

When Should You Contact Your Oncology Team?

If any of these symptoms become severe, worsen quickly, or occur together with any of the warning signs in our side effects guide, contact your oncology team without waiting for your next appointment. Otherwise, mention them at your next scheduled visit.

For details on side effects from immunotherapy, read our companion article — Does Immunotherapy Really Have No Side Effects? →