Side Effects of Cisplatin

There are quite a few side effects for cisplatin, yet despite these side effects, many doctors and patients continue its use. However, for some these side effects will cause conflicts due to other medications or comorbid conditions while others choose to not use cisplatin in favor of newer medications which have fewer and less severe side effects. Its widespread use is due to it effectiveness in treating certain types of cancer, so the benefits outweigh the detractions in certain cases. Also, since cisplatin has well-known and widely documented effects and side-effects, it can be used as a base treatment to provide consistent care for the patient while testing the effectiveness and side effects of another drug.

The following are some side effects of cisplatin:

• Nephrotoxicity - causes damage to the kidneys
• Neurotoxicity - causes damage to the nerves
• Nausea and vomiting - one of the most likely to cause severe nausea and vomiting
• Ototoxicity - hearing loss which is currently not treatable
• Alopecia - hair loss, not a common side effect
• Electrolyte imbalance - causes various problems with cell operation
• Decrease of blood cells in bone marrow
• Changes in how food tastes
• Frequent diarrhea
• Numbness in the extremeties
• Extreme fatigue

The side effects are generally reversible and will subside when treatment ends.

Research into Cisplatin and its function