Cisplatin Description

Generic Name: CISPLATIN

Pronunciation: (sis' pla tin)

Trade Name(s): Blastolem, Blastolem, Cisplan, CisplastinKorea, Cisplatin, Cytoplatin, Kemoplat, Neoplat, Oncoplatin-AQ, Platicis, Teraplatin

Why it is prescribed: Your doctor has ordered the drug cisplatin to help treat your illness. The drug will be injected into a vein. Cisplatin slows or stops the growth of cancer cells in your body. In addition to cisplatin, your doctor may have ordered other cancer-fighting drugs. This treatment is called combination therapy. Your doctor may measure the effectiveness of your treatment using laboratory tests and physical examinations. In general, the length of treatment depends on the types of drugs you are taking, how well your body responds to them and the type of cancer you have.

When it is to be taken: This drug is available in the form of vial at different strengths. Cisplatin is administered as an infusion. Treatment repeats every 28 days for 2-6 courses, depending on the response.

How it should be taken: The purpose of chemotherapy is to control your illness so that your own body can aid in your recovery. It is important to build up your body's defense system and a balanced diet is needed to build a healthy body. Ask your doctor for advice about your diet.

Special Instruction:
1. You should not assume that you cannot get pregnant just because yo are on chemotherapy.
2. You should not plan to have children while receiving chemotherpy or for a while after treatment.
3. Use a reliable form of birth control to prevent pregnancy.

Side Effects:
1. Although not everyone experiences side effects during chemotherapy, some people do. If any of the effects becomes intolerable, let your doctor know.
2. You may lose your appetite or your appetite may be greater in the morning or at different times during the day than usual. Take advantage of these times and eat. Frequent small meals or snacks throughout the day may be easier to tolerate and will help you get the nutrients your body needs.
3. Common discomforts are nausea and vomiting. Your doctor may have ordered anti-nausea medications to prevent you from feeling sick.
4. Follow your doctor's instructions. Avoid eating favorite foods, large meals and spicy or hot foods when you feel nauseated.
5. Cisplatin commonly causes the body to lose electrolytes (salts) such as magnesium. Ask your doctor about foods rich in these substances.
6. If you notice any of the following symptoms, tell your doctor as soon as possible; swelling in the feet or ankles, sudden weight gain, fluid retention, ringing in the ears, hearing difficulty, difficulty walking, fever, chills, sore throat, unusual bleeding or bruising, wheezing and difficulty breathing.

Other Precautions:
1. The response rate and toxicity of the drug should be evaluated.
2. Patients are followed for every 3 months.
3. Dose modifications may be required.

Storage Conditions: This drug is used only under the supervision of physician.