This is a platinum-containing complex which may act similarly to the alkylating agents.

Indications: Advanced ovarian cancer and lung cancer (particularly the small cell type)

Cautions: transfusional support may be needed particularly after prolonged therapy, since anaemia is cumulative; concurrent use of nephrotoxic compounds; renal impairment.

Contra-indications: severe renal impairment; severe myelosuppression; bleeding tumoural localizations; pregnancy & breast feeding.

Side Effects: Myelosuppression (more than cisplatin); nausea, vomiting, nephrotoxicity, neurotoxicity and ototoxicity (less than cisplatin); anaphylactic-like reactions may occur within a minute of administration.

Dose: needles or aluminium parts that may come in contact with the drug should not be used due to precipitate formation upon contact and loss of potency. Adults with normal kidney function and previously untreated: 400mg/m2 as single iv dose as short infusion (15– 60 minutes)