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Oxaliplatin
Oxaliplatin is a drug used to treat certain types of cancer that affect the colon or rectum. It comes as an injection that is administered intravenously (through an IV) every two weeks. This form of chemotherapy may not be suitable for some people who are taking certain medications or have certain medical conditions. Common side effects include nerve problems, nausea, and fatigue.
Oxaliplatin (Eloxatin®) is a prescription chemotherapy medication. It is used in combination with other medications for the treatment of the following types of cancer:
- Advanced colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon or rectum)
- Stage III colon cancer, after surgery to remove the tumor.
(Click What Is Oxaliplatin Used For? for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
Just like other chemotherapy medicines, oxaliplatin can cause side effects, some of which can be severe. In fact, most people will experience some type of side effect during oxaliplatin treatment. Talk to your healthcare provider about strategies to prevent or treat side effects you may experience.
Common side effects of oxaliplatin include but are not limited to:
- Nerve problems, which could cause symptoms such as:
- Sensitivity to the cold
- Numbness, tingling, or burning in the hands, feet, mouth, or throat (see Nerve Problems With Eloxatin)
- Decreased blood counts
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Mouth sores.
(Click Oxaliplatin Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH, BCPP
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD