Side Effects of Cisplatin Chemotherapy

Cisplatin is a heavy-metal-based chemotherapeutic agent and one of the most commonly used intravenous chemotherapy drugs. It exerts its anticancer effect by killing malignant cells through cytotoxic mechanisms. So, what are the side effects associated with cisplatin chemotherapy? Below is an overview.

Side Effects of Cisplatin Chemotherapy

1. Nausea and Vomiting

Chemotherapeutic agents directly irritate the gastrointestinal tract. Moreover, patients undergoing chemotherapy often experience anxiety and fear, which can further exacerbate these symptoms. Nausea and vomiting typically occur within 1–6 hours after drug administration and usually resolve within 24–48 hours.

2. Myelosuppression

Myelosuppression primarily manifests as decreased white blood cell and platelet counts. While cisplatin targets cancer cells, it also damages healthy rapidly dividing cells—including hematopoietic precursors in the bone marrow—leading to reduced production of white blood cells and platelets. The severity is generally dose-dependent. Myelosuppression typically peaks around three weeks post-treatment and gradually recovers over 4–6 weeks.

3. Allergic Reactions

Patients may develop hypersensitivity reactions to cisplatin. Mild reactions include pruritus, skin rash, facial flushing, and elevated blood pressure. Severe reactions may involve dyspnea, urticaria, or anaphylactic shock—requiring immediate emergency intervention to prevent life-threatening complications.

4. Hair Loss (Alopecia)

Hair loss is a common but not universal side effect of chemotherapy. Its extent varies depending on the specific chemotherapeutic agent used. Some drugs cause no hair loss at all; others lead to complete alopecia, while still others result only in mild thinning.

The above outlines the major side effects associated with cisplatin chemotherapy. We hope this information is helpful to you.