Cisplatin Product Information

The National Cancer Institute provides a number of studies conducted between 2005 and 2009 that have concluded that chemotherapy using the drug cisplatin is effective in the treatment of a variety of cancers.

Function

• When given intravenously as chemotherapy, Cisplatin prevents the continued growth of cancer cells, leading to their destruction, explains the Mayo Clinic.

Benefits

• Some of the cancers that Cisplatin treats include cancer of the breasts, female reproductive system, digestive system, lungs, nerves, prostate, liver, thyroid, skin, lymph nodes, kidneys, eyes, bones and muscles.

Precautions

• Doctors must supervise the administration of Cisplatin. Complications often occur in patients who have other illnesses like chicken pox, shingles, gout and kidney stones or disease after using Cisplatin.

Side Effects

• Common side effects of Cisplatin that require immediate medical attention include joint pain, loss of balance, ringing in the ears or trouble hearing, swelling of lower extremities and tiredness or weakness. Nausea is another common side effect, but is less serious.

Considerations

• The effectiveness of Cisplatin chemotherapy depends greatly upon the type and stage of the cancer. Cisplatin poses a risk to the fetus when given to pregnant mothers, and there is a greater chance of serious side effects when used by children.