BCG is not like a quick shot or antibiotic that "works" and that is it. Its purpose is to stimulate the immune system in the bladder lining (which is why is it sometimes very irritating) to fight off any foreign cells that are there or that might form. We hope that the "strengthened cells" will continue doing this for a long time. Most of us have the initial 6 weeks of BCG and then continue with maintenance doses usually given for three weeks every three months for up to a total of 2 years.
Sara Anne
Diagnosis 2-08 Small papillary TCC; CIS
BCG; BCG maintenance
Vice-President, American Bladder Cancer Society
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