Oxaliplatin
Oxaliplatin is a platinum-based chemotherapy agent used primarily to treat metastatic colorectal cancer, often in combination with other anticancer drugs. It works by forming DNA cross-links that prevent cancer cells from replicating and ultimately lead to cell death. This medication is typically administered intravenously by healthcare professionals in clinical settings.
Oxaliplatin is an intravenous chemotherapy drug used to treat metastatic colorectal cancer by damaging cancer cell DNA.
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
- L01XA03
- RxNorm
- 32592
- Generic
- Oxaliplatin
- Class
- atc-l01
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- injection
- 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.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
9 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks to the mother
regular fetal monitoring and ultrasound assessments
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
second third trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring including growth assessments
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
lactation
breastfeedingdiscontinue breastfeeding
do not breastfeed during oxaliplatin treatment and for appropriate washout period after last dose
ensure complete elimination from breast milk
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pediatric_age
pediatric oncologyadjust dose based on body surface area and tolerability
use under strict pediatric oncology supervision with appropriate supportive care
close monitoring of hematologic parameters renal function and neurotoxicity
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderly 65consider dose reduction based on renal function and comorbidities
assess renal function before treatment and monitor closely for signs of toxicity
regular monitoring of renal function electrolytes and neurological status
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mild moderatereduce dose based on creatinine clearance
calculate creatinine clearance before each cycle; modify dose accordingly
monitor renal function before each treatment cycle
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
severeavoid use or significantly reduce dose
use only if benefits outweigh risks with close monitoring
frequent renal function monitoring and dose adjustment
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
hepatic_impairment
mild moderateno standard dose reduction; use with caution
monitor liver function tests regularly
regular hepatic function monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
severeuse with significant caution
consider dose reduction and intensive monitoring
frequent hepatic function tests and clinical assessment
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
FDA approval year
FDA approval for colorectal cancer treatment
Drug class
Third-generation platinum compound
Primary indication
Stage III colon cancer and metastatic colorectal cancer
Mechanism of action
Binds to DNA forming cross-links preventing replication
Oxaliplatin is indicated for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer (used alone or in combination with other chemotherapy agents such as 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin) and is being investigated for other gastrointestinal malignancies.
Oxaliplatin undergoes nonenzymatic conversion in aqueous solutions to active derivatives. The oxalate ligand is displaced, forming reactive monoaquo and diaquo DACH platinum species that covalently bind to DNA, creating cross-links that inhibit DNA replication and transcription, ultimately causing cancer cell death.
Common side effects include peripheral neuropathy (often triggered or worsened by cold exposure), nausea, vomiting, and myelosuppression. Patients should avoid cold drinks and ice, and protect exposed skin in cold temperatures. Premedication with antiemetics is recommended. Requires careful monitoring of blood counts and kidney/liver function.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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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 July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy