Carboplatin

Carboplatin is a platinum-based alkylating agent that forms DNA cross-links, inhibiting replication and inducing apoptosis in cancer cells. Less nephrotoxic than cisplatin, it uses AUC-based Calvert dosing for optimized exposure. Effective in ovarian, lung, and head/neck cancers, commonly combined with paclitaxel or gemcitabine.

Key Benefits:

• Broad activity against solid tumors
• Reduced kidney toxicity vs cisplatin
• Outpatient-friendly infusion
• Essential in combination regimens

Doctor Review

Dr. Omar Khalid, MBBS, FCPS – Medical Oncologist “Carboplatin achieves targeted exposure via Calvert AUC dosing (GFR+25), balancing efficacy with myelosuppression. ICON7/GOG-218 trials show ovarian cancer superiority with paclitaxel, NSCLC equivalence to cisplatin with less nephrotoxicity. Hypersensitivity risk (>6 cycles) requires desensitization. Renal clearance mandates CrCl monitoring; slower DNA binding supports outpatient use.”

Side Effects

Common: Neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia, nausea, neuropathy Serious: Infections, bleeding, hypersensitivity, secondary cancers

Contact Team Immediately For: Fever, bleeding, breathing difficulty, allergic symptoms

Warnings

• Pregnancy: Category D—contraindicated
• Myelosuppression: Nadir days 14-21
• Renal: Adjust for CrCl <60ml/min
• Hypersensitivity: Premedicate; risk increases with cycles

Administration

• IV infusion 15-60 min every 21-28 days
• Central line/PICC preferred
• Pre-hydration, antiemetics required
• Oncology specialist only

Monitoring

• Weekly CBC, CrCl, electrolytes
• ANC >1500, platelets >100K before cycles

CureCart Direct Oncology Support

Specialized handling, infusion coordination, insurance navigation, caregiver resources.

Disclaimer: Chemotherapy requires oncology specialist supervision. Consult oncologist before treatment. Last updated: October 15, 2025.