Cisplatin

Cisplatin is a chemotherapy medication used to treat a number of cancers. These include testicular cancer,
ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, breast cancer, bladder cancer, head and neck cancer, esophageal cancer, lung
cancer, mesothelioma, brain tumors and neuroblastoma. It is given by injection into a vein.

Common side effects include bone marrow suppression, hearing problems, kidney problems, and vomiting.
Other serious side effects include numbness, trouble walking, allergic reactions, electrolyte problems, and heart
disease. Use during pregnancy is known to harm the baby. Cisplatin is in the platinum-based antineoplastic
family of medications. It works in part by binding to DNA and inhibiting its replication.

Cisplatin was discovered in 1845 and licensed for medical use in 1978/1979. It is on the World Health
Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most effective and safe medicines needed in a health system. The
wholesale cost in the developing world is about US$5.56 to US$7.98 per 50 mg vial. In the United Kingdom this
costs the NHS about £17.