Cisplatin

 

This is part of the ESHAP treatment, and is only given on days 1 – 4 inclusive.

 

Possible side effects

 

Nausea and Vomiting

Can be controlled with medicine.

 

Kidneys

Usually this does not cause any symptoms, and the effect is mild, but severe kidney damage is a possibility, so for this reason your blood will be checked before each treatment.

You will also be asked to record what you drink and the amount of urine that you pass on a daily basis.

If necessary, you may be given medicine to help you pass urine.

It is very important to drink extra fluid if asked.

 

Less Common Side Effects

 

Bone Marrow

A temporary reduction in bone marrow function, which can also result in bruising or bleeding and infection.

This effect can begin about 7 days after the treatment has been given and usually reaches it lowest point at 10-14 days after the chemotherapy, increasing steadily thereafter.

 

Numbness or tingling in hands or feet.

This usually improves slowly in a few months after treatment is finished.

 

Changes in hearing

You may experience ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and you may loose the ability to hear some high pitched sounds. This usually decreases when you finish treatment.

 

Temporary Taste alterations

If this becomes a problem, discuss it with your consultant, who can refer you to a dietician.

 

Loss of Appetite

If this becomes a problem, discuss it with your consultant, who can refer you to a dietician.

 

Diarrhoea

Can easily be controlled with medicine.

 

Allergic Reaction

Can include skin rashes, itching, high temperature, shivering, redness of the face, dizziness, headache, shortness or breath, anxiety and a need to pass urine.

Tell your doctor if any of these develop.

 

Fertility

Your ability to conceive or father a child may be affected by taking this drug.

 

Contraception

It is not advisable to become pregnant or father a child while taking this drug.

 

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