Carboplatin (Paraplatin, CBDCA)

Article Translations: (Spanish)

How does this medicine work?

Carboplatin (kar-bo-pla-tin) is a chemotherapy medicine that destroys cancer cells in all phases of cell life.

How is this medicine given?

Carboplatin is given into a vein (IV) in the hospital or clinic.

What are the side effects?

Expected

• low blood counts

Common

• moderate nausea, vomiting

Occasional

• tingling or numbness in the hands and feet
• abnormal potassium and sodium levels

Rare

• damage to liver or kidneys
• high-frequency hearing loss
• diarrhea
• metal taste in mouth
• secondary cancers

When should I call the doctor?

• fever or chills
• cough or sore throat
• bleeding, unusual bruising
• continued vomiting or diarrhea
• tingling or numbness of hands or feet
• lower back or side pain
• Dark urine or yellow skin or eyes
• signs of an allergic reaction:
• sudden rash or hives
• itching
• wheezing
• trouble breathing - call 911

What else do I need to know?

All caregivers should wear gloves when handling urine, stool, and vomit while your child is receiving the chemotherapy and for 48 hours afterward. Urine, stool, and vomit can be safely disposed of in septic tanks and the sewer system.

Any clothing or bed linens that are contaminated with urine, stool, or vomit should be washed separately from other laundry in hot water and detergent. Anyone handling the contaminated laundry should wear gloves.

Report any signs of an allergic reaction during the infusion.

Blood samples may be needed to check the effects of the carboplatin. Blood counts are lowest 2 to 4 weeks after the medicine is given.

Hearing, kidney, and liver function are monitored throughout therapy.

You and your child should know the names of all the medicines he or she is taking. Share this information with anyone involved in your child’s care.

Questions?

This is not specific to your child but provides general information. If you have any questions, please call the oncology clinic or pharmacy.

Reviewed 12/2015

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