Carboplatin
Molecule Description
Carboplatin is different from other Cisplatin medicine. It contains a Bidentate
Dicarboxylate (two atoms that coordinate directly to the central atom), instead of two Chloride Ligands. It is lower in reactivity and takes time to bind to the DNA. The slow cohesion allows the drug to remain in the body for more extended periods.
Uses of Carboplatin
- Treat ovarian cancer
- Treat testicular cancer, head and neck cancer, cervix cancer, small cell lung cancer, progressive diffuse large B-Cell lymphoma, neuroblastoma (cancer that forms at specific types of nerve tissues)
Contraindications of Carboplatin
When should one not use Carboplatin
- Allergic reaction to platinum-based medicineIf you have kidney disease
- Patients who have severe bleeding issues
- If you have a tumour that bleeds
- If you plan to receive a yellow fever vaccination or have just received one
Side effects of Carboplatin
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Hair loss
- Bleeding
- Stomach pain and cramp
- Itchy and rashes on the skin
- Feeling dizzy
- Breathlessness
- Pain in the back and chest
- Shivering
- Feeling flushed or hot
- Sore lips or mouth ulcers
- Anemia (decreased number of red blood cells)
- Thrombocytopenia (decreased platelet count)
- Neutropenia (decreased neutrophil count)
- Abnormal liver enzyme levels
- Decrease in the level of sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium in your blood
- Nephrotoxic (damaging to kidneys) - Lesser nephrotoxic side effects as compared to other forms of chemotherapy
- WBC count will dip drastically; this leads to common issues such as fever or infections. The latter’s symptoms include sore throats, diarrhea, cough and shivers
Precautions and Warnings of Carboplatin
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I take Carboplatin during pregnancy?
A:
This medicine is not recommended to use during pregnancy.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Carboplatin while breastfeeding?
A:
This medicine should not be administered to the women who are lactating or breastfeeding.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Carboplatin?
A:
Do not drive if you experience any side effect, which may reduce your ability to do so, such as nausea, vomiting, worsening of eyesight, or changes to your vision and hearing.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Carboplatin?
A:
The interaction with alcohol is unknown, but a consultation with a doctor is advisable.
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- If you notice a decrease in sensation and numbness, it is a part of the treatment
- If you have any form of an allergic reaction to platinum-based formulation, avoid taking Carboplatin
- Do not take any vaccine during treatment and consult your doctor before you do so
- Make sure the patient discloses all information regarding the consumption of any other medicines to the doctor, especially over the counter medicines and anything that contains Aspirin
Mode of Action of Carboplatin
How Does It Work?
The drug works by binding with the strands of the cancer cell’s DNA. It damages the DNA and stops the cells from multiplying. Unfortunately, it also has the same effects on normal healthy cells, which may result in side effects....
Interactions of Carboplatin
Interactions with other medicines
- Severe interactions with Clozapine and live vaccines
- Milder interactions with Vancomycin and Atorvastatin
- Aminoglycoside antibiotics (e.g., Gentamicin, Neomycin)
- Amphotericin B
- Anti-seizure medications (hydantoins such as Phenytoin)
- Water pills (loop diuretics such as Bumetanide, Furosemide)
- Nalidixic acid
- Blood-thinning medicines e.g., Warfarin
- Other medicines which decrease the activity of the immune system (e.g.Ciclosporin, Tacrolimus, Sirolimus)
Interactions with food items
There are no known food interactions available for this medicine, but you must consult your doctor.
Dietary Restrictions of Carboplatin
It has diet restrictions, but it is advised to drink ample amounts of fluid.
Dosage of Carboplatin
Overdose
The symptoms of overdose include difficulty in breathing, and the patient might collapse, contact a doctor immediately in case of such an event.
Missed a Dose
It is important to receive each scheduled dose of this medicine as directed. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist right away to establish a new dosage schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do you know the right dosage for every individual?
A: A formula called Calvert’s formula is used to calculate the dosage for every individual, which factors in the creatine clearance and the desired area under the curve.
Q: Should you consume more fluids during treatment?
A: You are supposed to consume at least two to three quarts of fluid every 24 hours during treatment.
Q: Where was Carboplatin developed?
A: It was discovered at Michigan State University and developed in The ICR, London. It was approved for usage and sales in 1989. In 2004, various versions of the drugs was made available for public usage.
Q: How long does the administration for each dosage last?
A: Each dosage takes around 15-60 minutes to be given through injection. The duration of your treatment is dependent on the severity of your condition.
Q: Should you use contraceptives during treatment?
A: Yes, you should under no circumstance conceive during treatment as it can be fatal for the foetus.
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