About oxaliplatin
Platinum-based chemotherapy medicine
Used for
- Treats advanced bowel cancer, usually with other chemotherapy medicines.
- Used after surgery for some stage III colon cancers.
Usual adult dose
Usually 85 mg/m² by intravenous infusion every two weeks with other chemotherapy; regimen varies.
Common side effects
- Numbness, tingling, or pain from nerve effects, often worsened by cold.
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or mouth sores.
- Low blood-cell counts, increasing infection or bleeding risk.
- Infusion reactions, including rash, breathing difficulty, or fever.
Important warnings
- Can cause serious allergic reactions during infusion.
- Nerve damage may persist or worsen with repeated treatment.
- Blood counts and kidney function require monitoring.
- Avoid cold drinks and cold exposure if they trigger nerve symptoms.
Pregnancy
May harm an unborn baby. Effective contraception is needed during treatment and for six months after the last dose.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for three months after the last dose.
Interactions
- Other medicines that affect kidneys or blood cells may increase toxicity.
- Warfarin and other blood-thinning medicines may require closer monitoring.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.