Drug interactions
Carboplatin + Cisplatin
Severity: Major
Carboplatin and Cisplatin: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: UK SmPC
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Two platinum agents given together can add up in their effects on the bone marrow, kidneys, hearing and peripheral nerves. Myelosuppression, nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity may be more severe than with either drug alone.
What this interaction means in plain words
Carboplatin and Cisplatin can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Carboplatin belongs to Oncology; Cisplatin belongs to Oncology.
Why it happens
Additive toxicity from two platinum compounds sharing similar damage to marrow, renal tubular and cochlear cells.
What to do
Avoid routine concurrent use unless part of a defined protocol. If used, monitor blood counts, renal function, electrolytes and hearing.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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References
- Cisplatin 1 mg/ml concentrate for solution for Infusion - SmPC sections 4.3/4.5 (class statement: other platinum containing compounds; "Hypersensitivity to cisplatin or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1 or other platinum containing compounds.") — electronic medicines compendium (UK SmPC)
Other interactions of Cisplatin
- Cidofovir + Cisplatin Contraindicated
- Adefovir + Cisplatin Major
- Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live + Cisplatin Major
- Amikacin + Cisplatin Major
- Amphotericin b deoxycholate + Cisplatin Major
- Amphotericin b + Cisplatin Major
Other interactions of Carboplatin
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Carboplatin with Cisplatin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Carboplatin and Cisplatin can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Two platinum agents given together can add up in their effects on the bone marrow, kidneys, hearing and peripheral nerves. Myelosuppression, nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity may be more severe than with either drug alone.
How serious is the interaction between Carboplatin and Cisplatin?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid routine concurrent use unless part of a defined protocol. If used, monitor blood counts, renal function, electrolytes and hearing.
What other medicines interact with Cisplatin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Cisplatin with, for example, Cidofovir, Adefovir, Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live. The full list is on the Cisplatin page.
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