Carboplatin Injection

Warning : Carboplatin can cause severe blood disorders (e.g., anemia, bone marrow suppression) that can result in infection and bleeding problems. Your risk of developing these problems increases with higher doses or longer treatment with carboplatin. Also, an unlikely but very serious allergic reaction to this drug may occur within minutes of receiving a dose. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following symptoms: easy bruising/bleeding, signs of infection (e.g., persistent sore throat, fever), unusual tiredness, rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. Vomiting is a common side effect of this medication. See the Side Effects section for more information.

Uses : Carboplatin is used to treat various types of cancer. It is a chemotherapy drug that contains platinum. It is used alone or in combination with other medications to slow or stop cancer cell growth.

How to Use: Carboplatin is usually given by infusion into a vein (intravenously-IV) over at least 15 minutes by a healthcare professional.The dosage is based on your medical condition, body size, and response to therapy. In general, courses of carboplatin treatment should not be given more often than once every 4 weeks. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Side Effects : Stomach pain, body aches/pain, diarrhea, constipation, weakness, nausea, and vomiting may occur. Nausea and vomiting can be severe in some patients but usually go away within 24 hours of treatment. Drug therapy may be needed to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting. Not eating before your treatment may help relieve vomiting. Changes in diet such as eating several small meals or limiting activity may help lessen some of these effects. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Temporary hair loss may occur. Normal hair growth should return after treatment has ended.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: numbness or tingling in the hands/feet, mouth sores, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine, unusual tiredness, change in the amount of urine, pain/swelling/redness at the injection site, hearing problems (e.g., ringing in the ears, hearing loss), easy bruising/bleeding, blood in the urine, black/bloody stools, fast/irregular heartbeat.Rarely, temporary vision loss may occur with high doses of carboplatin

Precautions : Before using carboplatin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, or to cisplatin; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: decreased bone marrow function/blood cell disorders (e.g., anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia).Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, mineral imbalance (low blood levels of sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium).Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without the consent of your doctor, and avoid contact with people who have recently received oral polio vaccine

Overdose: If overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Notes : Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., complete blood counts, kidney function tests, blood mineral levels) should be performed to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.

Missed Dose: For the best possible benefit, it is important to receive each scheduled dose of this medication as directed. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately to establish a new dosing schedule.

Storage: Not applicable. This medication is given in a clinic and will not be stored at home.MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information about enrolling in MedicAlert, call 1-888-633-4298 (US) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).