Cisplatin: how to take it safely
Platinol
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats testicular, ovarian, lung, head and neck and other cancers.
How to take it
It is given by drip into a vein by a cancer nurse or doctor, with plenty of fluids before and after to protect the kidneys.
When to take it
Given every 3 to 4 weeks, as your specialist plans.
Take it with
Not applicable.
What to avoid
- Not drinking enough fluids. Drink plenty after treatment unless told not to.
- Tell your team if you have kidney or hearing problems.
- Anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen unless your team says so.
- 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 and vomiting, ringing in the ears, tingling in hands and feet, tiredness, low blood counts.
Get help if
Very little urine, hearing loss or ringing in the ears, severe vomiting, numbness or weakness, or fever and 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.