Carboplatin (CBDCA) For the Treatment of Cancer

 

Description

Carboplatin is chemotherapy given to treat cancer.

 

How It Is Given

It is injected into a vein.

 

Common Side Effects

• Nausea and vomiting
• Reduced blood counts (white blood cells, platelets) occur in 2-3 weeks

 

Less Common Side Effects

• Hearing changes may occur at high doses.
• Kidney changes may occur, but can be prevented by giving fluids into a vein.
• Rarely, allergic reactions.
• Dizziness.
• Change in menstrual periods.
• Elevated calcium.
• Fever.
• Weight loss may occur.
• Hair loss may occur, but will regrow.  Hair texture may change.
• Numbness and tingling in your hands and feet.
• After about six cycles you may have flushing of the skin, swelling or shortness of breath         during the treatment.  If these symptoms occur medicine will be given to relieve the symptoms.

    

 

Call Your Health Care Provider if You Develop

• A change in hearing
• New or increased numbness or tingling
• Trouble urinating or blood in your urine
• Excessive bruising or bleeding

 

Special Concerns

• Platelets will be affected.  Refer to HFFY #4493, Thrombocytopenia.
• Avoid blood-thinning medicines such as aspirin, or ibuprofen.

 

 

The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Last Updated: 10/01/2009

Reproduced with permission from the 1989-2006 United States Pharmacopeial Convention, Inc. Printed in 3/2006 by the University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority, Department of Nursing, Madison WI. UWH #5544

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