All about Carboplatin

Prescribed as a chemotherapy medication, Carboplatin or Paraplatin is an antineoplastic cytotoxic drug that is prescribed for the treatment of ovarian cancer, osteogenic sarcoma, tumors in the lungs, head, neck, esophagus, breast, and central nervous system. Carboplatin chemotherapy is also given to patients as a preparation for bone marrow or stem cell transplant. This chemo drug contains platinum and is used for slowing down or stopping the growth of cancer cells. It interferes with the DNA of the cancer cells and prevents it from dividing.

How is it taken? Dosage and Usage

Carboplatin is administered intravenously, i.e., as an infusion in the vein. Other than that, the medication is also given directly as an injection into the peritoneal cavity of the abdomen. It is generally prescribed as a single-agent therapy. The dosage depends on your body weight, extent, and type of the disease. The maximum dosage is Carboplatin 450 mg. If you are facing unbearable toxicities, the doctor might temporarily suspend treatment or decrease Carboplatin dose. 

The infusion takes place for 15 minutes or more approximately. An experienced medical professional must carry it out. Typically, Carboplatin is not given more often than once in 4-5 weeks. In rare cases, it is given weekly. 

Precautionary Measures 

It is essential to mention about all the medications, including dietary supplements and herbal remedies, to your doctor because the ingredients can interact with Carboplatin 450mg and lead to toxicities. 

• For pregnant women, Carboplatin is not suitable because it can harm the fetus. 

• This medication isn't recommended for breastfeeding women because the ingredients can pass through breast milk and bring upon life-threatening consequences for the baby.

• A thorough medical checkup will be conducted before starting treatment to determine whether the patient's body is capable of handling the side effects. It will also determine whether the body is allergic to any active or inactive ingredients of the drug. 

• Avoid getting a vaccine or immunization shots without consulting with your doctor. 

• If you have a history of allergic reactions to Cisplatin, it is essential to mention about that to the doctor.

• Aluminum needles are to be avoided while administering the drug. 

• It lowers the body's ability to fight with infections. Therefore, it is safest to avoid places with a crowd where the chances of catching an infection are more. 

Carboplatin Side Effects 

• Nausea

• Dizziness and fatigue

• Ear infection

• Occasional numbness

• Temporary hair loss

• Decreased RBC count, thereby leading to anemia 

• Mouth sores

• Diarrhea 

These are some of the side effects of Carboplatin injection 450mg, which are quite common and easily manageable. They also do not impose life-threatening risks. 

During the course of treatment, you may also notice unusual bruising and bleeding. If there are serious consequences like fatal allergic reactions, shortness of breath, or significant hearing impairment, consult with your physician immediately. 

Conclusion

Medical studies state that the tolerance level for Carboplatin in patients has been relatively high (71.2% to 81.9%). The progression-free survival rate for 5 years ranges from 62.5% to 89.7%, depending on the gravity of the condition. 

Carboplatin price for a 450ml vial is 1983.22 INR. However, it varies in the case of different pharmacies. Customers buying in bulk can get discount offers from certain companies. Whether you are buying the drug online or offline, a legitimate establishment will always ask for a valid doctor's prescription. 

Before starting treatment, it is essential to attend the chemo information session where your doctor will explain to you about the benefits of this drug. This will render guidance for you to be able to measure the outcome against the adverse effects. Regular healthcare checkup is also mandatory to observe the patient's disease progression and modify the treatment plan (if necessary).