Cisplatinum (Platinol)

Cisplatinum is one of the older chemotherapy drugs which has been around and in use for decades. It is an active medicine against many cancers. Cisplatinum is a white powder which, when prepared for use, becomes a clear, colorless liquid. It is given by intravenous route only. It is most commonly used in treatment of the following cancers:

• Ovarian

• Endometrial

• Head and Neck

• Lung

• Testis

• Breast

• Stomach

• Lymphomas

• Leukemias

The type and extent of a cancer will determine the method and schedule of administration of this drug. This decision is made by the medical oncologist. Cisplatinum is given by intravenous infusion, over one to five days, every three to four weeks.

Side Effects:

The degree and severity of the side effects depend on the amount and schedule of the administration of Cisplatinum. Following are some of the most common and significant ill effects:

• Kidney damage

• Diarrhea

• Low Platelet count

• Anemia

• Hair Loss

• Nausea and vomiting

• Damage to ears and hearing problems

In order to prevent damage to kidneys and hearing, patients receive plenty of fluids prior to the administration of Cisplatinum. A new drug called, Amifostine (Ethyol) seems to be able to counteract the side effects and protect the kidneys against the ill effects of Cisplatinum.

Anti-nausea medications are also used beforehand. It is imperative that patients relay any side effects or problems to his/her medical oncologist.