Carboplatin (Paraplatin® carboplatin aqueous solution)

Class of Drugs: Platinum containing compounds - Antineoplastic agents

Manufacturer:
Bristol-MyersSquibb

Information on Patient Assistance Program:

The Partnership for Prescription Assistance -
1-888-4PPA-NOW (1-888-477-2669)
or
Bristol-Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation, Inc.
PO Box 1058
Somerville, NJ 8876
(http://www.bmspaf.org/ - Web Site is not currently available)

Description: The solution should be clear with no floating particles. If there is discoloration or "particulate matter" in the solution, it should not be used.

Ingredient: Carboplatin

Use: This medication is used primarily in the treatment of ovarian cancers. It interferes with the DNA of the tumor - causing difficulty in cell reproduction. Often combined with cyclophosphamide for initial treatment of ovarian cancer, it is chemically related to cisplatin which is used in treating breast cancer. Carboplatin is also occasionally used for cancers of the brain and lung.

Warnings:
Bone marrow suppression is dose related and may be severe, resulting in infection and/or bleeding. Anemia may be cumulative and may require transfusion support.

Anaphylactic-like reactions to Carboplatin that usually occur within minutes of Carboplatin administration have been reported. Epinephrine, corticosteroids, and antihistamines may need to be used to alleviate symptoms.

Aluminum reacts with Carboplatin causing loss of potency. Needles or intravenous sets containing aluminum parts that may come in contact with the drug must not be used for the preparation or administration of Carboplatin.

Side Effects: Bone marrow suppression is the most severe side effect of Carboplatin. It is usually more severe in patients with impaired kidney function. Drug dosages must be carefully regulated and blood counts monitored. This effect is usually reversible, with drug related deaths occuring in less than 1% of the clinical population. This effect may be more severe when Carboplatin is combined with other bone marrow suppressing drugs or with radiotherapy.

Contact your doctor if you develop mouth sores, unusual bruising or bleeding, weakness, skin rash, chills, fever, weakness, breathing trouble, a rapid, pounding or irregular heartbeat, tingling of the hands or feet or tremors while taking this medication.

Nausea, vomiting, diarreah or constipation and gastrointestinal pain are common side effects of this medication. These side effects usually subside within 24 hours.

Visual disturbances and changes in the sense of taste are relatively uncommon side effects. Hearing problems may become more pronounced due to this treatment.

Kidney and liver effects were reported in a very small number of patients and were usually reversible. In high dose chemotherapy regimens, liver toxicity was more common.

If you notice any other side effects, check with your doctor.

References: Carboplatin

Return to Drug Index

This information is intended as reference and not as medical advice. All treatment decisions should be made with your team of medical professionals and prescriptions must be given by your doctor. See TERMS AND CONDITIONS.