cisplatin Health Article

Generic name(s):

cisplatin

Brand name(s):

Platinol, Platinol-AQ

What is the most important information I should know about cisplatin?

Cisplatin should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.

Serious side effects have been reported with the use of cisplatin including: allergic reactions (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); kidney damage (little or no urine production, blood in the urine); hearing loss or ringing in the ears; decreased bone marrow function and blood problems (extreme fatigue; easy bruising or bleeding; black, bloody or tarry stools; or fever, chills, or signs of infection); severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite; and others. Talk to your doctor about the possible side effects from treatment with cisplatin.

What is cisplatin?

Cisplatin is an antineoplastic medication. Cisplatin interferes with the growth of cancer cells and slows their growth and spread in the body.

Cisplatin is used to treat various types of cancer including metastatic testicular tumors, metastatic ovarian tumors, and advanced bladder cancer.

Cisplatin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Who should not use cisplatin?

Do not use cisplatin without first talking to your doctor if you have

• kidney disease;

• poor bone marrow function;

• hearing impairment; or

• an allergy to platinum or platinum-containing products.

The use of cisplatin may be dangerous if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Cisplatin is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that cisplatin is known to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use cisplatin without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. Discuss with your doctor the appropriate use of birth control during treatment with cisplatin if necessary. Cisplatin passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Breast-feeding should be avoided during treatment with cisplatin.

How should I use cisplatin?

Cisplatin should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.

Your doctor will determine the correct amount and frequency of treatment with cisplatin depending upon the type of cancer being treated and other factors. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns regarding the treatment schedule.

Adequate hydration is important during treatment with cisplatin. Your doctor may prescribe the administration of intravenous fluids and/or recommend additional fluid intake by mouth during treatment.

Your doctor will probably want you to have regularly scheduled blood tests and other medical evaluations during treatment with cisplatin to monitor progress and side effects.

Your healthcare provider will store cisplatin as directed by the manufacturer. If you are storing cisplatin at home, follow the directions provided by your healthcare provider.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Contact your doctor if you miss a dose of cisplatin.

What happens if I overdose?

If for any reason an overdose of cisplatin is suspected, seek emergency medical attention or contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Symptoms of a cisplatin overdose tend to be similar to side effects caused by the medication, although often more severe.

What should I avoid while using cisplatin?

There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while using cisplatin unless otherwise directed by your doctor.