Products
Oxaliplatin is commercially available as an infusion concentrate (Eloxatin, generic). It was approved in many countries in 2000 as a third platinum compound for cancer therapy.
Structure and properties
Oxaliplatin (C8H14N2O4Pt, Mr = 397.3 g/mol) is a platinum compound. It exists as a white crystalline powder and is sparingly soluble in water.
Effects
Oxaliplatin (ATC L01XA03) has cytostatic and antitumor properties. The effects are due to binding to the DNA of cancer cells, resulting in bonds within the DNA strands. This ultimately leads to cell death.
Indications
For the treatment of cancer (metastatic colorectal cancer, stage III colon cancer, combination therapies).
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is administered as an intravenous infusion.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Bone marrow depression
- Peripheral sensory neuropathy
- Severe renal dysfunction
- Pregnancy and lactation
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Drug-drug interactions have been described with renal toxicants.
Adverse effects
In addition to cancer cells, healthy body cells are also affected by the effects, causing side effects. The most common possible adverse effects include:
- Increase in liver enzymes
- Hair loss, skin rash
- Bleeding
- Blood count disorders / bone marrow toxicity: neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia, leukopenia, lymphopenia.
- Constipation, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, mucositis.
- Peripheral sensory neuropathy
- Pain
- Allergic reactions
- Infectious diseases, fever, fatigue
- Electrolyte disorders
