Cisplatin modifies cell cycle by interfering with DNA structure and function. Effects are most prominent during the S phase but cells are killed at all stages. Cisplatin synergises with other anticancer drugs e.g. fluorouracil. It has a narrow therapeutic margin and is highly toxic.

Cisplatin is indicated as first line therapy for lung cancer, head & neck cancer and for the treatment of advanced and metastatic ovarian carcinoma, bladder carcinoma and testis carcinoma.

Metastatic ovarian cancer: As monotherapy: 100 mg/m² per cycle, given as a single dose infused in 0.9% sodium chloride or glucose once every 4 wk. For combination therapy with cyclophosphamide: 75-100 mg/m² on day 1 of every 4-wk cycle.

Metastatic testicular tumours: 20 mg/m² BSA daily for 5 days per cycle.

Advanced bladder cancer: 50-70 mg/m² per cycle once every 3-4 wk, depending on the extent of prior exposure to radiation and/or chemotherapy treatment. An initial dose of 50 mg/m² every 4 wk may be used in heavily pre-treated patients.

Usual dosage and schedule: 40 to 120 mg/m² I.V. on day 1 as infusion every 3 weeks. 15 to 20 mg/m² I.V. on days 1 to 5 as infusion every 3 to 4 weeks. The usual dose in adults and children when used as single agent therapy is 50-100 mg/m².

Cisplatin is contraindicated in patients with pre-existing renal impairment. Cisplatin should not be employed in myelosuppressed patients, or patients with hearing impairment. It is also contraindicated in patients with a history of allergic reactions to cisplatin or other platinum-containing compounds.

Severe nausea and vomiting. Serious toxic effects on the kidneys, bone marrows and ears. Hypomagnesaemia, hypocalcaemia, hyperuricaemia. Peripheral neuropathies, papilloedema, optic neuritis, seizures. Ototoxicity (children) manifested as tinnitus, loss of hearing, deafness or vestibular toxicity.

Overdose Effects

Acute overdosage may result in kidney failure, liver failure, deafness, ocular toxicity, significant myelosuppression, intractable nausea and vomiting and/or neuritis. Death may also occur following overdosage. Treatment should include general supportive measures.

Patients with renal or hepatic disorder, myelosuppression. Monitor renal, neurological and auditory function. Perform blood counts regularly. Maintain adequate hydration before and 24 hr after admin to minimize nephrotoxicity.

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 (e.g., if the drug is needed in a life-threatening situation or for a serious disease for which safer drugs cannot be used or are ineffective).