What is this medication for?
Cisplatin belongs to the group of cancer-fighting medicines known as antineoplastics, and specifically to the group of antineoplastics known as platinum-containing compounds. Another platinum-containing compound is carboplatin. Cisplatin prevents the growth of cancer cells by interfering with the genetic material DNA, which is necessary for reproduction of cells. Cisplatin is used alone or with other cancer drugs to treat cancers that include tumors of the testes and ovaries as well as bladder cancer.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Platinol-Aq® is available as:
Platinol-Aq® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
Cisplatin will be injected by the doctor or by someone under the direct supervision of the doctor. The recommended dose varies according to your body size and whether other cancer drugs are being used at the same time. Cisplatin is given as an intravenous infusion (slowly injected into the vein). It is usually injected through a specially prepared site on the skin. This medication is most often given every 3 to 4 weeks, or as one infusion (of smaller dose) daily for 5 days every 3 to 4 weeks.
Your doctor may want you to drink extra fluids while taking this medication in order to help you pass more fluid and protect your kidneys.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. Your doctor may decide on a dosage schedule different from that described here.
Very careful handling of this medication is required. It is always administered in a hospital or similar setting with access to sterile equipment for preparation.
As well as interfering with the genetic material DNA of cancer cells, cisplatin can interfere with some of your normal cells. This can cause a number of side effects such as nausea. Keep track of any side effects and report them to your doctor as suggested in the section, "What side effects are possible with this medication?"
Who should NOT take this medication?
Cisplatin should not be used by anyone who:
- is allergic to cisplatin, other platinum-containing compounds, or any ingredients of the medication
- has a hearing problem
- has problems with their kidneys
- has reduced bone marrow function (low white and red blood cells and platelet cells)