Carbomax 450mg Injection

About

Carboplatin is a platinum-based antineoplastic agent widely used in chemotherapy to treat various types of cancer. It functions by forming cross-links in DNA, which inhibits DNA replication and transcription, ultimately leading to programmed cell death in rapidly dividing cancer cells. As a second-generation platinum compound, it offers a similar spectrum of activity to cisplatin but with a more favorable toxicity profile, particularly regarding nephrotoxicity and neurotoxicity, while myelosuppression becomes the dose-limiting toxicity.

Administered intravenously, carboplatin is often used in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents or radiation therapy to enhance its efficacy. Its mechanism of action targets the fundamental processes of cell division, making it effective against a broad range of solid tumors. Careful dosing based on renal function and body surface area, often calculated using the Calvert formula, is crucial to optimize therapeutic outcomes and manage potential side effects.

Uses

• Treatment of advanced ovarian carcinoma.
• Management of small cell lung cancer.
• Therapy for non-small cell lung cancer.
• Used in certain germ cell tumors and head and neck cancers.

Directions For Use

Administered intravenously by a healthcare professional. Dosage and frequency are determined by the physician based on the patient's condition and response.

Benefits

• Effective against a broad spectrum of solid tumors.
• Often used in combination therapies for enhanced efficacy.
• Generally better tolerated than cisplatin regarding kidney and nerve toxicity.
• Plays a crucial role in first-line and recurrent cancer treatment.
• Helps to reduce tumor size and slow disease progression.
• Contributes to improved survival rates in various cancers.

Side Effects

• Nausea and vomiting
• Bone marrow suppression (low blood counts)
• Fatigue and weakness
• Hair loss (alopecia)
• Peripheral neuropathy (numbness, tingling)
• Hearing loss (ototoxicity)
• Kidney problems (nephrotoxicity)
• Liver enzyme elevations
• Allergic reactions (rash, itching)
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Electrolyte imbalances
• Mucositis (inflammation of mucous membranes)

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Avoid alcohol during carboplatin treatment as it can exacerbate side effects like nausea, fatigue, and liver strain, potentially interfering with recovery and treatment efficacy.
• Pregnancy - Carboplatin is contraindicated in pregnancy due to its genotoxic and teratogenic potential. Effective contraception is essential for both male and female patients during and after treatment.
• Breastfeeding - Breastfeeding is not recommended during carboplatin therapy and for a period after, as the drug can pass into breast milk and potentially harm the infant.
• Liver - Use with caution in patients with pre-existing liver impairment. Liver function should be monitored regularly, and dose adjustments may be necessary based on the severity of dysfunction.
• Kidney - Carboplatin is primarily excreted by the kidneys. Dose adjustments are crucial for patients with renal impairment to prevent increased toxicity, especially myelosuppression.
• Lung - While not a primary lung toxicant, patients with pre-existing lung conditions should be monitored for any respiratory complications, though severe lung toxicity is rare.

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