Oxaliplatin is a anti-cancer drug that is used in chemotherapy. This drug is used to treat colon cancer that has metastasized or spread.
Availability, dosage and administration
Oxaliplatin is not available in pill form and is administered intravenously. The amount of oxaliplatin depends on a number of factors like the height and weight of the person.
Availability
100mg infusion
Dosage
85 mg/2m2 via IV infusion for 120 minutes every 2 weeks; given in combination of infusion 5-FU and leucovorin.
Side effects
Most people do not experience side effects while being treated with oxaliplatin. Even if side effects occur they are predictable in terms of their onset and duration. These side effects are almost always reversible and will go after the treatment is complete. The most common side effects are listed below.
- Nausea and occasional vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Mouth sores
- Poor appetite
- Peripheral neuropathy which us a tingling sensation in hands and feet
- Low blood counts
- Shortness of breath, jaw spasm
- Fever
- Headache
- Cough
- Allergic reactions
- Constipation
- Generalized pain
Precautions
- Before starting oxaliplatin treatment, inform your doctor about other medications that you might be taking.
- Do not take any kind of vaccination or immunization without informing your doctor.
- Inform your doctor before starting the oxaliplatin if you are pregnant. Oxaliplatin is hazardous for the fetus.
- Do not conceive a child while on oxaliplatin treatment. This applies to both men and women.
- Do not breastfeed while on treatment oxaliplatin.