Carboplatin - Chemotherapy Drugs for Mesothelioma
Since chemotherapeutic drugs have been available for the treatment of mesothelioma doctors have been experimenting with a variety of different chemotherapy drugs, including Carboplatin.
Introduced in the late 1980s, Carboplatin is favored by many physicians because its side effects are much less severe in comparison to many other chemotherapeutic drugs, particularly Cisplatin, which is the 'parent' drug of Carboplatin (meaning that Carboplatin is a modified form of Cisplatin). Carboplatin is most commonly used to treat ovarian, lung, head, and neck cancers, but has also shown some success in treating mesothelioma.
Most chemotherapeutic drugs, including Carboplatin, are designed to kill cancer cells. Carboplatin works by breaching the cellular wall and binding to the cell's DNA, preventing the cell from dividing and functioning normally, which eventually kills the cell. These drugs tend to target cancer cells because they are attracted only to cells that divide rapidly.
Mesothelioma Treatment with Carboplatin
Carboplatin chemotherapy is typically administered on an out-patient basis at a hospital or cancer treatment center. The medication is given intravenously, usually once every 28 days. In cases where a patient with mesothelioma requires more frequent chemotherapy, or where Carboplatin treatment is combined with other treatments or drugs, it may be administered on an in-patient basis, requiring a stay of two or more consecutive days in the hospital.
Anyone with kidney disease is discouraged from seeking treatment with Carboplatin. It should be noted that Carboplatin, like most chemotherapy drugs, is harmful to unborn babies. Thus, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use this drug.
Are You on Chemo?
If you are taking Carboplatin or other chemotherapy drugs to treat mesothelioma, request a free informational packet to learn more. To have your packet sent overnight, fill out the form to the right.
Side Effects of Carboplatin
Side effects of Carboplatin are typically less severe than those associated with most other chemotherapeutic agents. However, patients taking this medication can still expect to experience some unpleasant side effects, which may include:
- Hair loss
- Impaired immune function
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Impaired vision or hearing
- Feelings of fatigue or weakness
- Increased tendency for bruising or bleeding (due to poor clotting)
Patients experiencing the following should immediately call their doctor:
- Red urine
- Dizziness or feeling of faintness
- Black, tarry stools
- Fever
- Chills
- Shortness of breath or wheezing
- Swelling of the feet or ankles
- Rash
Those treated with Carboplatin for mesothelioma typically experience reduced immune system function and become more prone to infection. This means even a cold may be dangerous to a patient receiving this treatment. Anyone receiving treatment with Carboplatin should avoid contact with people who have colds or other infections.
A potentially serious side effect of Carboplatin is kidney damage. The symptoms of kidney damage usually include pain or difficulty in urinating, or the appearance of blood in the urine.
The appearance of any side effects, whether mild or serious, should be discussed with a doctor as soon as they arise. A cancer doctor may be able to prescribe medication to help alleviate certain side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. To avoid potential life-threatening complications, anyone who is taking Carboplatin should seek medical advice if they contract any kind of infection or experience fever, chills, rash, or sore throat.
Looking for the Best Treatments?
Mesothelioma patients considering chemotherapy as a treatment option should discuss any concerns with a qualified doctor. Asbestos.com's Doctor Match Program helps patients find top mesothelioma specialists anywhere in the country. If this is a service you can use, please call us (800) 549-0544 or click the link above.
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© 2012 The Mesothelioma Center |
Last Modified Monday, May 14th, 2012 | Disclaimer | Privacy Policy |
The information provided by The Mesothelioma Center is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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