Chemotherapy, sometimes called chemo for short, is a type of cancer treatment that involves using very strong drugs to damage and kill cancer cells. It is one of the three standard types of cancer treatment, along with surgery and radiotherapy. Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to destroy cancer cells. It usually works by keeping the cancer cells from growing, dividing, and making more cells. Chemotherapy is one of the most common treatments for cancer. It can be used alone or with other treatments. If your treatment plan includes chemotherapy, knowing how it works and what to expect can help you prepare for treatment and make informed decisions about your care. What is chemotherapy? Chemotherapy is one of the most common cancer treatment options. Learn what it is, how chemo works, how it differs from radiation therapy and more.