Carboplatin: how to take it safely
Paraplatin
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats ovarian, lung and some other cancers.
How to take it
It is given by drip into a vein by a cancer nurse or doctor.
When to take it
Given every 3 to 4 weeks, as your specialist plans.
Take it with
Not applicable.
What to avoid
- Tell your team if you have kidney problems or have had a reaction to platinum drugs.
- Pregnancy and fathering a child during treatment. Use reliable contraception and ask your team how long to continue it.
- Live vaccines unless your cancer team says so.
- Contact with people who have infections such as chickenpox or flu.
- Alcohol, unless your team says it is safe.
Possible side effects
Nausea, vomiting, tiredness, hair thinning, low blood counts.
Get help if
Trouble breathing, a rash, swelling of the face or itching during the drip: tell the staff straight away. Unusual bleeding or bruising, fever or signs of infection: get urgent help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.