carboplatin

Carboplatin (Paraplatin) is only approved by the FDA to treat certain types of ovarian cancers. But according to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines, it can be used off-label to treat many other types of cancers. These other cancers can include certain breast cancers, head and neck cancers, small cell and non-small cell lung cancers, and stomach cancers. In these cases, the NCCN recommendations are based on strong evidence from clinical trials that support the clinical benefit and safety of using carboplatin (Paraplatin) off-label. Talk with your provider about whether carboplatin (Paraplatin) can be used to treat your cancer.

Carboplatin (Paraplatin) and cisplatin are both platinum-based chemotherapy medications (they contain the metal platinum). But they differ in their side effect profiles. Carboplatin (Paraplatin) is more likely to lower your blood counts than cisplatin. This puts you at a higher risk for infections, bleeding or bruising, and potentially needing blood transfusions. But cisplatin is more likely to cause kidney problems, hearing loss, and numbness or tingling of the hands and feet (nerve problems). Both can cause significant nausea and vomiting, but slightly more with cisplatin.

The infusion time for carboplatin (Paraplatin) will vary from person to person depending on your treatment regimen and your carboplatin (Paraplatin) dose. In general, it’s given as an injection into the vein over at least 15 minutes, but typically 30 to 60 minutes. Ask your healthcare team how long they expect each of your carboplatin (Paraplatin) infusions will take for your specific cancer treatment.

Washing your hands often is one of the easiest ways to lower your chances of developing an infection while you’re receiving carboplatin (Paraplatin) treatment. You should also avoid crowded places and people who are sick. Be sure to wash raw fruits and vegetables before eating and cook foods thoroughly to lower your risk for food-borne illnesses. Remember to follow these tips because carboplatin (Paraplatin) will lower your blood cell counts, weaken your immune system, and make you more likely to develop a serious infection. Let your provider know right away if you have any signs of an infection, such as fever, tiredness, or chills.

Let your provider know if you feel very nauseous or vomit while you take carboplatin (Paraplatin). They can suggest ways to help you manage these side effects both with and without medications. Your provider will prescribe anti-nausea medications while you’re getting treated for your cancer. It’s easier to prevent nausea and vomiting than it is to treat it when it happens. So it’s important to follow the directions your provider gives you on how to take the anti-nausea medications. Continue to take them as needed to help with your symptoms. Aside from medications, you can also try drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated; eating smaller, more frequent meals; and avoiding strong smells. Your provider might also recommend alternative strategies, such as acupuncture, hypnosis, or other relaxation techniques.

Your provider will choose an appropriate carboplatin (Paraplatin) dose for you depending on your kidney function. If you have kidney problems, your body can have a harder time getting rid of carboplatin (Paraplatin) from your body through the urine. This can cause the medication to build up in the body and raise your risk for side effects, such as infections and bleeding or bruising. Let your provider know if you have problems with your kidneys. You’ll need to be monitored more closely and will probably receive a lower dose of carboplatin (Paraplatin) to lower your risk of toxicity.