What it does
Oxaliplatin is a chemotherapy medicine used to treat certain types of cancer.
Commonly used for: colorectal cancer, colon cancer, rectal cancer
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-03-01 02:03:28 · updated 2026-08-09 02:04:21
About this medicine
Oxaliplatin is a chemotherapy medicine used to treat certain types of cancer.
What it treats
- colorectal cancer
- colon cancer
- rectal cancer
How it works
Oxaliplatin works by stopping cancer cells from growing and dividing, which helps to shrink or slow down the cancer.
Who it's for
It is used for adults diagnosed with specific kinds of cancer, particularly in combination with other cancer treatments.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: oxalplatin
Oxaliplatin is a platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent used primarily in the treatment of colorectal cancer. It functions by interfering with DNA replication and transcription, leading to cell death. Oxaliplatin is often used in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents to enhance its efficacy.
Indications
- Colorectal cancer
- Metastatic colorectal cancer
- Adjuvant treatment for stage III colon cancer
Dosage
Children: Refer to BNF for Children for appropriate pediatric dosing information.
Adults: Refer to BNF for specific dosing recommendations, as doses are tailored to individual patient needs based on factors such as body surface area and treatment regimen.
Mechanism of action
Oxaliplatin forms DNA cross-links by binding to the N7 position of guanine bases in DNA, which impedes DNA replication and transcription. This ultimately triggers cellular apoptosis. The drug is activated by cellular mechanisms, leading to the formation of reactive platinum species that interact with DNA.
Pharmacodynamics
Oxaliplatin exhibits dose-dependent cytotoxicity against cancer cells. The drug's effectiveness is influenced by the cell cycle phase, particularly affecting rapidly dividing cells. It is also known to induce a variety of cellular stress responses, including the activation of DNA damage response pathways.
Pharmacokinetics
Oxaliplatin is administered intravenously and exhibits a biphasic elimination profile. The volume of distribution is approximately 20-25 L/m², suggesting extensive tissue distribution. The drug is metabolized primarily in the liver, with excretion mainly via urine. The half-life of oxaliplatin is approximately 2 hours during the initial phase and can extend up to 20 hours during the elimination phase.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to oxaliplatin or any of its components
- Severe bone marrow suppression
- Pregnancy
Adverse effects
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Fatigue
- Myelosuppression
- Anemia
- Thrombocytopenia
- Neutropenia
- Hypersensitivity reactions
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
Interactions
- Other myelosuppressive agents may increase the risk of bone marrow suppression
- Anticonvulsants may reduce the effectiveness of oxaliplatin
- CYP450 enzyme inducers or inhibitors may affect the metabolism of oxaliplatin
Precautions
- Monitor for signs of peripheral neuropathy
- Evaluate renal function before and during treatment
- Use caution in patients with a history of severe allergies or asthma
- Ensure adequate hydration to reduce the risk of nephrotoxicity
Pregnancy
Oxaliplatin is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus. Effective contraception should be used during treatment.
Breast-feeding
It is not known whether oxaliplatin is excreted in human milk, caution is advised.
Storage
Store at 2-8°C. Protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze.
Formulations
- Injection: 5 mg/mL in 20 mL vials
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.