Carboplatin is an alkylating agent which binds covalently to DNA. It modifies the cell cycle by interfering with DNA structure and function.

Initial Treatment of Advanced Ovarian Carcinoma: Carboplatin is indicated for the initial treatment of advanced ovarian carcinoma in established combination with other approved chemotherapeutic agents. One established combination regimenconsists of Carboplatin and cyclophosphamide. Two randomizedcontrolled studies conducted by the NCIC and SWOG with carboplatin versus cisplatin, both in combination with cyclophosphamide, have demonstrated equivalent overall survival between the two groups.

There is limited statistical power to demonstrate equivalence in overal pathologic complete response rates and long-term survival ( ≥ 3 years) because of the small number of patients with these outcomes: the small number of patients with residual tumor < 2 cm after initial surgery also limits the statistical power to demonstrate equivalence in this subgroup.

Secondary Treatment of Advanced Ovarian Carcinoma: Carboplatin is indicated for the palliative treatment of patients with ovarian carcinoma recurrent after prior chemotherapy, including patients who have been previously treated with cisplatin.

Within the group of patients previously treated with cisplatin, those who have developed progressive disease while receiving cisplatin therapy may have a decreased response rate.

Previously untreated patients: 400 mg/m² as single short term IV infusion over 15-60 min. Therapy should not be repeated until 4 wk after the previous course and/or until the neutrophil count is at least 2,000 cells/mm³ and the platelet count is at least 100,000 cells/mm³.

Patients previously treated with myelosuppresive therapy or patients with poor performance status: Reduce initial dosage by 20-25% (300-320 mg/m²).

Carboplatin injection should not be employed in patients with severe bone marrow depression or significant bleeding. It is contraindicated in patients with a history of severe allergic reactions to cisplatin or other platinum containing compounds.

Bone marrow suppression, gastrointestinal effects, nephrotoxicity, nervous system, ototoxicity, allergic reactions, alopecia, mucositis.

Much less renal toxicity than cisplatin so no need for a vigorousm hydration schedule or forced diuresis. If AUC dosing is not used, dose should be reduced to 250 mg/m² for creatinine clearance of 41 to 59 ml/min and to 200 mg/m² for clearance of 16 to 40 ml/min. Corticosteroids & antihistamines are employed to alleviate symptoms.

Use in Special Populations

Renal Impairment:

• CrCl (16-40 ml/min)- 200 mg/m².
• CrCl (41-59 ml/min)- 250 mg/m².

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category D. There is positive evidence of human foetal risk, but the benefits from use in pregnant women may be acceptable despite the risk