Brand names None
Used in the following combined preparations None
GENERAL INFORMATION
Cisplatin is one of the most effective drugs available to treat cancer of the
ovaries or testes. People with cancer of the head, neck, bladder, cervix, and
lung have also responded well to it. Recent research indicates that cisplatin
may be an effective treatment against bone cancer in children. It is often given
along with other anticancer drugs.
The most common and serious adverse effect of cisplatin is impaired kidney
function. To reduce the risk of permanent kidney damage, the drug is usually
given only once every four weeks, allowing the kidneys time to recover between
courses of treatment. Nausea and vomiting may occur shortly after administration
of cisplatin, in which case anti-emetic drugs are given because these symptoms
may be quite severe.
Damage to hearing is common, and may be more severe in children. Use of
cisplatin may also increase the risk of anaemia, blood clotting disorders, and
infection during treatment.
INFORMATION FOR USERS
This drug is given only under medical supervision and is not for self-
administration.
How taken
Injection.
Frequency and timing of doses
Once every 3-4 weeks (on its own); once daily for 5 days every 3 weeks (in
combination with other anticancer drugs).
Adult dosage range
Dosage is determined individually according to body height, weight, and response.
Onset of effect
Some adverse effects, such as nausea and vomiting, may appear within hours of
starting treatment.
Duration of action
Some adverse effects may last for up to 1 week after treatment has stopped.
Diet advice
Prior to treatment it is important that the body is well hydrated. Fluid is
usually given by infusion.
Storage
Not applicable. The drug is not normally kept in the home.
Missed dose
Not applicable. The drug is given only in hospital under medical supervision.
Stopping the drug
Not applicable. The drug will be stopped under medical supervision.
Exceeding the dose
Overdosage is unlikely since treatment is carefully monitored, and the drug is
given intravenously only under close supervision.
POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
Most adverse effects appear within a few hours of injection and are carefully
monitored in hospital after each dose. Some effects wear off within 24 hours.
Nausea and loss of appetite may last for up to a week.
INTERACTIONS
General note
A number of drugs increase the adverse effects of cisplatin. Because cisplatin
is given only under close medical supervision, these interactions are carefully
monitored and the dosage is adjusted accordingly.
QUICK REFERENCE
Drug group Anticancer drug
Overdose danger rating High
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic Yes
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Cisplatin is prescribed only under close medical supervision, taking account of
your present condition and your medical history.
Pregnancy
Not usually prescribed. Cisplatin may cause birth defects or premature birth.
Discuss with your doctor.
Breast-feeding
Not advised. The drug passes into the breast milk and may affect the baby
adversely. Discuss with your doctor.
Infants and children
The risk of hearing loss is increased. Reduced dose used.
Over 60
Reduced dose may be necessary. Increased likelihood of adverse effects.
Driving and hazardous work
No known problems.
Alcohol
No known problems.
PROLONGED USE
Prolonged use of this drug increases the risk of damage to the kidneys, nerves,
and bone marrow, and to hearing.
Monitoring Hearing tests and blood checks to monitor kidney function and bone
marrow activity are carried out regularly.
