Carboplatin
Carboplatin is a platinum-based chemotherapy medication used to treat various cancers, most commonly ovarian cancer, lung cancer, and certain types of head and neck cancers. It works by interfering with DNA in cancer cells, preventing them from dividing and multiplying. It is typically used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs or as a second-line treatment when other therapies have not been effective.
Carboplatin is a platinum-based chemotherapy drug used to treat various cancers by damaging cancer cell DNA and preventing cell division.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- L01XA02
- RxNorm
- 40048
- Generic
- Carboplatin
- Class
- atc-l01
- Brands
- Paraplatin, Kyxata
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Carboplatin is primarily used to treat advanced ovarian cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, and squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck. It may also be used for bladder cancer, endometrial cancer, and neuroblastoma in pediatric patients.
As a platinum-based antineoplastic agent, carboplatin forms reactive platinum complexes that bind to DNA strands. This causes DNA cross-linking, which damages the genetic material and prevents cancer cells from replicating. The cells then undergo apoptosis (programmed cell death).
Carboplatin is administered intravenously by healthcare professionals. Common side effects include bone marrow suppression (low blood counts), nausea, vomiting, and potential kidney effects. It may cause allergic reactions and requires regular blood monitoring during treatment. Patients should discuss fertility preservation options before treatment, as it may affect reproductive function.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy