How It Works

Carboplatin is an intravenous (IV) medication usually given in
a dose based on body surface area. The type and extent of a cancer determines
the exact dose and schedule of administering this drug.

Why It Is Used

Carboplatin is an alkylating agent that slows or stops the growth
of the cancer cells. carboplatin is used to treat ovarian cancer.
It may also be used to treat bladder, breast, lung, esophageal, testicular,
or endometrial cancer, lymphoma, and malignant melanoma.

How Well It Works

Carboplatin is an effective antitumor medication. However, the
type and extent of a cancer determines how effectively this medication
slows or stops the growth of cancer cells in the body.

Side Effects

Side effects of carboplatin include:

* Decreased white blood counts. Red blood cell counts and platelet counts
can also be reduced.
* Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
* Diarrhea or constipation.
* Numbness and tingling in the hands or feet (peripheral neuropathy).
* Hearing changes or hearing loss.
* Mild rash.
* Hair loss. This is reversible, and hair will grow back when treatment
ends.
* Mouth sores (stomatitis).
* Changes in kidney and liver function tests.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is
not available in all systems.)

What To Think About

Carboplatin should be administered only under the supervision
of a medical oncologist.

Your doctor can order drugs to help manage any nausea or vomiting caused
by carboplatin.

Men and women may not be able to have children after taking carboplatin.
Discuss fertility with your doctor before starting treatment.

Carboplatin can cause birth defects. Do not use this medication
if you are pregnant or wish to become pregnant or wish to father a child
while you are taking it.

Do not use this medication if you have:

* Kidney or liver disease.
* Chickenpox or shingles.
* Hearing problems.