Toxicities of the platinum antineoplastic agents

Abstract

The platinum agents (cisplatin, carboplatin and oxaliplatin) are among the most useful anticancer agents available to oncologists. The drugs have the potential to produce both mild and more serious side effects. However, in general, the platinum agents can be delivered with acceptable toxicity, even when used in combination chemotherapy regimens. Furthermore, with appropriate dose modifications, the large majority of patients who may benefit from this class of cytotoxic pharmaceutical drugs will be able to complete a planned therapeutic programme.