Chemotherapy for Endometrial Cancer

Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to destroy cancer cells. It is a systemic (whole body) treatment.  

Chemotherapy may be used to treat high-grade endometrial cancers that can grow quickly. It is also used for stage III and IV cancers that return after treatment. Most patients receive chemotherapy after surgery, sometimes with radiation. It is given through a vein. Often, you will get a combination of two drugs. 

These are the chemotherapy drugs that are used most often to treat endometrial cancer. New treatments become available all the time, so this may not be a complete list.  

Please note: The side effects listed here do not represent a comprehensive list. Each chemotherapy drug has its own set of side effects and ways of working. It's important to discuss all potential side effects of a drug with your healthcare team. Be sure to tell your healthcare team about any side effects you do have. 

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All Available Treatments

IV (through a vein) =      Pill =

Treatment Type

Chemotherapy 

Drug Names
Taxol® (Paclitaxel) (IV)
Paraplatin® (Carboplatin) (IV)
Adriamycin® (Cisplatin), (Doxorubicin) (IV)
Doxil® (Liposomal Doxorubicin) (IV)
Taxotere® (Docetaxel) (IV)
Gemzar® or Infugem® (Gemcitabine) (IV)
Potential Severe Side Effects
Heart problems Fertility issues Kidney problems Hearing changes
Potential Side Effects
Nausea/vomiting Weight/appetite changes Neuropathy Mouth sores Hair thinning/loss Low blood counts Fatigue/weakness
Important Things to Know
  • Mouth sores are a potential side effect that can be painful and affect your oral intake. Speak to your provider about proactive management and an oral care regimen.
  • If you want to preserve your fertility, talk with your doctor before starting chemotherapy.  

  • Chemotherapy can be given by itself or alongside radiation or other drugs based on your doctor’s recommendation.