Paraplatin, also known as Carboplatin, is a platinum-based chemotherapeutic drug used to treat various types of cancer. It works by interfering with the DNA in cancer cells, preventing them from dividing and growing.
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Paraplatin is primarily used to treat ovarian cancer but can also be used for lung, head and neck, and other cancers.
The drug is administered intravenously and dosing depends on body surface area and renal function.
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, low blood cell counts, and kidney toxicity.
Paraplatin works by forming cross-links within DNA strands which inhibits DNA replication and transcription.
Patients undergoing treatment with Paraplatin require regular monitoring of blood counts and kidney function.
Review Questions
What types of cancer is Paraplatin commonly used to treat?
How does Paraplatin interfere with cancer cell growth?
What are some common side effects associated with Paraplatin?
Related terms
Cisplatin: Another platinum-based chemotherapy drug that works similarly to Paraplatin but has different toxicity profiles.
Nephrotoxicity: A potential adverse effect of certain chemotherapeutic agents like Paraplatin involving damage to the kidneys.
Myelosuppression: A decrease in bone marrow activity resulting in reduced production of blood cells, a common side effect of many chemotherapy drugs including Paraplatin.