Carboplatin

Uses

This medication is used to treat ovarian cancer alone or in combination with other anticancer medications.

It’s also used to treat the following underlying conditions:

• small cell lung cancer, head and neck cancer
• cancer that develops in the female reproductive organs, such as the breast, fallopian tubes, and uterine lining.
• bladder cancer
• cervical cancer
• osteogenic sarcoma
• prostate cancer, testicular cancer
• as a precursor to stem cell transplantation
• germ cell tumor
• primary peritoneal carcinoma

IUPAC name: azanide;cyclobutane-1,1-dicarboxylic acid;platinum(2+)

Drug class: Platinum-containing anticancer compound

Route of administration: Intravenous; intraperitoneal

Is it a drug that needs a prescription? YES

Is it an OTC drug? NO

Mechanism of action

Carboplatin acts by interfering with the genetic material (DNA & RNA) of malignant cells by generating platinum complexes. This inhibits the growth of cancerous cells.

Side effects

Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, diarrhea, constipation, sore throat, pain/weakness, tingling in the hands and feet, disorientation, swelling/pain/redness at the injection site, hair loss temporarily.

Serious side effects

Yellowing of skin/eyes, dizziness, swelling of the face/feet/arms/ankles, unusual fatigue, shortness of breath, dark urine, ringing in the ears, transient vision loss, blood in urine or stools.

Precautions

Take the following precautions before using this drug and notify your doctor:

If you are allergic to it, other platinum-containing medications, or if you have any other allergies,

If you are taking any other medications (prescribed, non-prescribed, or herbal products),

If you have a history of renal issues, inadequate bone marrow function, anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, low magnesium, potassium, or calcium levels, or a history of bleeding problems, consult your doctor.

Avoid contact to prevent the spread of infections

Use of this medication is not recommended during pregnancy.

If you wish to get pregnant or if you are breastfeeding, consult your doctor.