Carboplatin is a chemotherapy drug used to treat a wide spectrum of cancers. While it has certain risks and side effects, like all medications, it offers fewer toxic effects than earlier drugs and is prescribed because the benefits outweigh the risks.
Function
Carboplatin stops the growth and reproduction of cancer cells. It is a second-generation platinum-containing compound offering less toxicity than its parent drug cisplatin. Carboplatin is used to treat many cancers, including ovarian, lung, testicular, head and neck, and bladder cancers, as well as Wilms' tumor, brain tumors and retinoblastomas.
Administration
Carboplatin is given intravenously over the course of 15 to 60 minutes, although it can be delivered over a 24-hour period. Carboplatin can also be infused into the peritoneal cavity.
Side Effects
Common carboplatin side effects can include lowered blood cell counts, brittle hair, diarrhea, constipation, nausea or stomach pain. Tell your doctor if you have fatigue lasting for more than a few hours or severe mouth blistering. If you have side or back pain, red urine, tarry stools, shortness of breath, dizziness or faintness, fever or chills, or shortness of breath, contact your doctor right away.
Precautions
Before starting carboplatin, make sure your doctor knows about any food or medication allergies, pre-existing medical conditions or infections you have. Tell your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking, or if you have taken carboplatin or cisplatin before.
Reproductive Health Caution
Ask your doctor about possible risks of sterility with this drug. If you are trying to get pregnant or are pregnant, consult your doctor. Carboplatin use by either partner during conception or pregnancy could cause birth defects. It is unknown if carboplatin passes into breast milk.
Warning
Carboplatin can affect your bone marrow production, blood count or organs, so your doctor may perform tests to monitor your health while you are on this medication and after you finish it. Carboplatin may also cause nerve damage. If you notice numbness, tingling or weakness in your hands or feet, notify your doctor immediately.
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