WARNING

Cisplatin is a potent chemotherapy drug used to treat various cancers. While effective, it also carries several risks and side effects:

• Kidney Damage: Cisplatin can cause kidney damage, leading to impaired kidney function. Patients receiving cisplatin typically undergo regular kidney function tests.
• Nausea and Vomiting: One of the most common side effects of cisplatin is severe nausea and vomiting, which can be difficult to manage and may require additional medication.
• Hearing Loss: Cisplatin can cause irreversible hearing loss, especially at higher doses or with prolonged use. Regular hearing tests may be necessary during treatment.
• Neurotoxicity: Cisplatin may cause nerve damage, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the extremities.
• Bone Marrow Suppression: Cisplatin can suppress bone marrow function, resulting in low blood cell counts (anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia), which increases the risk of infections, bleeding, and fatigue.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to cisplatin, which can range from mild skin rashes to severe anaphylaxis.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Cisplatin can cause diarrhea, constipation, or other gastrointestinal disturbances.
• Electrolyte Imbalance: Cisplatin may disrupt electrolyte balance in the body, leading to abnormalities such as low levels of magnesium, potassium, or sodium.
• Long-Term Effects: Some patients may experience long-term effects from cisplatin treatment, including an increased risk of secondary cancers.

It’s important for patients receiving cisplatin to be closely monitored by their healthcare team and to report any concerning symptoms promptly. The benefits of cisplatin treatment must be weighed against the potential risks, and patients should discuss these with their healthcare providers.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Cisplatin injection is a chemotherapy medication prescribed primarily for treating various types of cancer, including:

• Testicular Cancer: It’s often used as part of combination chemotherapy for testicular cancer, either before or after surgery.
• Ovarian Cancer: Cisplatin is used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs for treating ovarian cancer, particularly in cases where the cancer has spread beyond the ovaries.
• Bladder Cancer: It’s used as part of a combination chemotherapy regimen for bladder cancer, especially when the cancer has spread or if surgery isn’t an option.
• Lung Cancer: Cisplatin can be part of combination chemotherapy for small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer.
• Head and Neck Cancer: It’s used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs or radiation therapy for treating certain types of head and neck cancers.
• Other Cancers: Cisplatin may also be prescribed for other types of cancer, such as esophageal cancer, cervical cancer, and neuroblastoma.

Cisplatin works by interfering with the growth and spread of cancer cells, ultimately leading to their destruction. However, it can also affect normal cells, leading to side effects. Therefore, its use requires careful monitoring and management by healthcare professionals.

How should this medicine be used?

Cisplatin injection is typically administered intravenously (IV) in a hospital or clinic setting by a healthcare professional trained in chemotherapy administration. The dosage and frequency of cisplatin injections vary depending on factors such as the type and stage of cancer, the patient’s overall health, and their response to treatment.

Before each dose of cisplatin, patients may receive medications to help prevent or reduce side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and kidney damage. Patients should follow their healthcare provider’s instructions carefully and report any side effects or concerns promptly.

It’s crucial for patients to attend all scheduled appointments for cisplatin treatment and to communicate openly with their healthcare team about their treatment experience. Additionally, patients should adhere to any dietary or lifestyle recommendations provided by their healthcare provider to support their overall health during treatment.

Other uses for this medicine

Other uses for cisplatin injection may include off-label uses, which are usages not approved by regulatory authorities but may be prescribed by healthcare providers based on their clinical judgment and evidence of effectiveness. Off-label uses of cisplatin may include certain types of cancers or conditions not specifically approved by regulatory authorities but where cisplatin has shown therapeutic benefit.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for cisplatin injection, it’s essential to follow these guidelines:

• Medical Supervision: Cisplatin should only be administered by healthcare professionals experienced in chemotherapy administration in a clinical setting equipped to manage potential side effects and emergencies.
• Pre-treatment Evaluation: Before starting cisplatin treatment, patients should undergo a thorough medical evaluation, including kidney function tests, hearing assessments, and assessments of blood cell counts.
• Hydration: Adequate hydration before and after cisplatin administration is crucial to help protect the kidneys from damage. Patients may receive intravenous fluids before and after treatment to maintain hydration.
• Nausea and Vomiting Prophylaxis: Patients typically receive anti-nausea medications before and after cisplatin treatment to help prevent or minimize nausea and vomiting.
• Hearing Protection: Due to the risk of hearing loss, patients receiving cisplatin should undergo regular hearing assessments during treatment, and measures to protect hearing may be recommended.
• Monitoring: Patients undergoing cisplatin treatment require regular monitoring of kidney function, blood cell counts, and other relevant parameters to detect and manage any potential side effects promptly.
• Pregnancy and Contraception: Cisplatin can cause fetal harm if administered during pregnancy, so it’s essential for both men and women of reproductive age to use effective contraception during treatment and for a period afterward.

Patients should discuss any concerns or questions about cisplatin treatment with their healthcare provider, who can provide personalized guidance based on their individual medical history and circumstances.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to maintain hydration before and after cisplatin treatment. However, follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding fluid intake.
• Nutrition: Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to support your overall health and immune function during treatment. If you experience nausea or changes in taste, consider small, frequent meals and bland foods that are easier to tolerate.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of cisplatin injection, contact your healthcare provider immediately for guidance. It’s essential to follow their instructions closely and not to double the dose to make up for the missed one. Your doctor will determine the best course of action based on your specific situation and treatment plan.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Cisplatin injection can cause various side effects, ranging from mild to severe. These side effects may vary depending on factors such as the dose, duration of treatment, and individual patient characteristics. Common side effects of cisplatin injection include:

• Nausea and Vomiting: These are among the most common side effects of cisplatin treatment and can be severe. Medications to prevent or alleviate nausea and vomiting are often prescribed before and after treatment.
• Kidney Damage: Cisplatin can cause kidney toxicity, leading to impaired kidney function. This can result in changes in urine output, increased levels of creatinine or urea in the blood, and electrolyte imbalances.
• Hearing Loss: Cisplatin is associated with the risk of irreversible hearing loss, especially at higher doses or with prolonged use. Regular monitoring of hearing function is typically recommended during treatment.
• Bone Marrow Suppression: Cisplatin can suppress bone marrow function, leading to low blood cell counts (anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia), which increases the risk of infections, bleeding, and fatigue.
• Neurotoxicity: Cisplatin may cause nerve damage, resulting in symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the extremities. This peripheral neuropathy can be temporary or permanent.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Cisplatin treatment may cause diarrhea, constipation, or other gastrointestinal disturbances, such as abdominal pain or indigestion.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to cisplatin, ranging from mild skin rashes to severe anaphylaxis.
• Electrolyte Imbalance: Cisplatin can disrupt electrolyte balance in the body, leading to abnormalities such as low levels of magnesium, potassium, or sodium.
• Hair Loss: Cisplatin treatment may cause temporary hair loss or thinning.
• Fatigue: Many patients experience fatigue or weakness during cisplatin treatment, which can impact daily activities and quality of life.

It’s important for patients undergoing cisplatin treatment to be closely monitored by their healthcare team and to report any side effects or concerns promptly. Management strategies, such as supportive medications or dose adjustments, may be implemented to help mitigate side effects and improve treatment tolerability.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of cisplatin injection:

• Storage: Cisplatin injection should be stored at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F) away from light and moisture. Avoid freezing. Follow any specific storage instructions provided by the manufacturer or your healthcare provider.
• Handling: Healthcare professionals should handle cisplatin injection with caution, wearing appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and goggles, to avoid skin contact or inhalation of fumes.
• Disposal: Dispose of any unused cisplatin injection according to local regulations or guidelines. Do not dispose of it in household trash or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so. Your healthcare provider or pharmacist can provide guidance on proper disposal methods.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe side effects after receiving cisplatin injection, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center.
• Symptom Management: In case of overdose, supportive care may be provided to manage symptoms and complications. This may include measures to support kidney function, manage electrolyte imbalances, and alleviate other adverse effects.

What other information should I know?

• Follow-Up: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider during cisplatin treatment. Regular monitoring of kidney function, blood cell counts, and other relevant parameters is essential to detect and manage potential side effects promptly.
• Contraception: Cisplatin can cause fetal harm if administered during pregnancy. Both men and women of reproductive age should use effective contraception during treatment and for a period afterward to prevent pregnancy.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care, including dentists and pharmacists, that you are receiving cisplatin treatment. They should be aware of any potential interactions with other medications or procedures.
• Patient Education: Be informed about the potential side effects and risks associated with cisplatin treatment. Report any concerning symptoms or changes in your health to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Support Services: Seek support from healthcare professionals, support groups, or counseling services if you experience emotional or psychological distress related to your cancer diagnosis or treatment. Supportive care services are available to help address your physical, emotional, and practical needs throughout your treatment journey.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about cisplatin injection, you can help ensure safe and effective treatment under the guidance of your healthcare provider.