What Causes Weightloss When On Chemotherapy Treatment?

Posted on Tue, 13 Jan 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 13 Jan 2015 Answered on

Thu, 29 Jan 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : 4 kg weight loss in three months on chemotherapy . Is this normal ?

Answered by Dr. Krunal Modi (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Don't worry it is normal.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Welcome to HCM.
It is said that one should lose weight maximum 1-2 pound per week.
You have lost 4 kg in 3 months so no need to worry.
Hope this will help you.
Thanks for contacting.
Take care...

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj

Follow up: Dr. Krunal Modi (17 minutes later)

But the patient has colon cancer. Primary removed then a liver met and aortocaval node seen on a recent scan. Hes on irinitecan so im concerned its due to cancer .

Answered by Dr. Krunal Modi (8 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Yes but if diet is good then mostly with chemo.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Welcome to HCM.
Yes you are right.
If patient has colon cancer than weight loss is mostly due to lack of diet.
But if diet is proper than 1-2 pound/week is expected with chemo.
Please give protein rich diet to withstand the effects of chemo.
Have a healthy life ahead.
Take care...

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj