Chemotherapy is treatment using anti-cancer drugs. The aim is to slow the growth, or sometimes to cure, melanoma that has spread to internal organs. If a cure is not possible, chemotherapy is sometimes used to help relieve symptoms caused by the growth of the cancer.

Treatment is usually given over six to twelve months. The number of treatments will vary according to the type of melanoma and the drugs used.

Side effects

Chemotherapy can cause side effects such as feeling sick, vomiting, depression, tiredness and thinning or loss of hair from your body and head. These side effects are temporary and steps can be taken to prevent or reduce them