Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

CARBOPLATIN - INJECTION

(CAR-bow-plah-tin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Paraplatin

WARNING: Carboplatin can cause severe blood disorders (e.g., anemia, bone marrow suppression ) resulting in infection or bleeding problems. The risk of developing bone marrow suppression increases as the dose of carboplatin is increased. Vomiting is a common side effect of this medication. Allergic reactions may also occur. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following symptoms: easy bruising or bleeding, signs of infection (such as persistent sore throat or fever); unusual fatigue, vomiting; signs of allergic reaction such as skin rash, breathing trouble, itching, swelling, or dizziness.

Uses

This medication is used alone or in combination with other drugs in the treatment of certain cancers.

How To Use

This medication is administered by infusion into a vein over at least 15 minutes by a health care professional. It may be given as one dose every 4 weeks or as 5 smaller doses over 5 days. The dose and frequency is based on your blood count and response to previous doses.

Side Effects

Nausea and vomiting may be severe in about 1/3 of all patients but usually subsides within 24 hours of treatment. Medication may be given prior to therapy to help reduce this effect. Pain, diarrhea, constipation, frequent headaches, change in taste, or hair loss may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: mouth sores, unusual bruising or bleeding, weakness, skin rash, flu-like symptoms (e.g., chills, fever, weakness), loss of appetite, breathing trouble, a rapid pounding or irregular heartbeat, tingling of the hands or feet, tremors. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have: pre-existing blood disorders, bone marrow disease, kidney disease, any allergies. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this medication. It is not known if carboplatin passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: hydantoins (e.g., phenytoin). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include easy bruising or bleeding, persistent sore throat or fever, fatigue, stomach pain, yellowing eyes or skin, dark urine, change in the amount of urine, hearing changes, numbness or tingling in arms, hands, legs, or feet.

Notes

Laboratory tests and blood counts will be done routinely while using this medication to monitor its effects and prevent side effects. Aluminum reacts with carboplatin causing a precipitate. Do not use needles or IV sets that contain aluminum parts.

Missed Dose

It is important that each dose be used as scheduled. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor who will help establish a new dose schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Once prepared, this medication is stable for only 8 hours. Check the expiration date on the label and properly discard of any unused medication after that time.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).