Paraplatin

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Paraplatin

Classes

Platinum Compounds

Administration

Hazardous Drugs Classification
NIOSH 2016 List: Group 1
NIOSH (Draft) 2020 List: Table 1
Observe and exercise appropriate precautions for handling, preparation, administration, and disposal of hazardous drugs.
Use double chemotherapy gloves and a protective gown. Prepare in a biological safety cabinet or compounding aseptic containment isolator with a closed system drug transfer device. Eye/face and respiratory protection may be needed during preparation and administration.
Emetic Risk
Pediatrics: Doses 175 mg/m2/dose or higher: High
Adults: Moderate
Administer routine antiemetic prophylaxis prior to treatment.
Extravasation Risk
Irritant

Injectable Administration

Carboplatin is administered intravenously as an infusion.
Routine hydration is not required with carboplatin therapy. Hydration should be considered in patients with renal impairment or in those receiving concurrent nephrotoxic agents.
Visually inspect parenteral products for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration whenever solution and container permit.
Aluminum needles or IV sets containing aluminum should not be used for carboplatin preparation or administration because aluminum reacts with carboplatin to form a precipitate, causing loss of potency.

Intravenous Administration

Reconstitution of vials:
Reconstitute carboplatin 50 mg, 150 mg, or 450 mg vials with 5 mL, 15 mL, or 45 mL, respectively, of sterile water for injection, 5% Dextrose for injection, or 0.9% Sodium Chloride injection. The reconstituted vials should have a concentration of 10 mg/mL of carboplatin.
Reconstituted vials are stable for 24 hours at room temperature (25 degrees C). Paraplatin multidose (10 mg/mL) vials are stable for up to 14 days following initial entry into the vial.
 
Further dilution for infusion:
Further dilute carboplatin solution (10 mg/mL) with 5% Dextrose injection or 0.9% Sodium Chloride injection to concentrations of 0.5 to 4 mg/mL.
Carboplatin solutions further diluted with 5% Dextrose injection or 0.9% Sodium Chloride injection are stable for 8 hours at room temperature (25 degrees C). Since carboplatin solutions are preservative-free the manufacturer recommends discarding any unused carboplatin solution after 8 hours.
 
Intermittent infusion:
Infuse appropriate dose IV over 15 minutes to 1 hour.
 
Continuous infusion:
Infuse at a rate to allow administration of the entire dose over a 24-hour period.

Other Administration Route(s)

Intraperitoneal Administration:
NOTE: Carboplatin is not approved by the FDA for intraperitoneal administration.
Add carboplatin to a pre-warmed sterile 0.9% Sodium Chloride solution prior to instilling (i.e., body temperature).
Dilute carboplatin dosage in 2 liters 0.9% Sodium Chloride injection, instill and dwell for 2 to 4 hours, then drain by gravity as completely as possible.
Carboplatin is administered via a Tenckhoff catheter or a percutaneously inserted peritoneal dialysis catheter.

Adverse Reactions
Severe

neutropenia / Delayed / 16.0-82.0
leukopenia / Delayed / 15.0-71.0
thrombocytopenia / Delayed / 25.0-33.0
anemia / Delayed / 0-14.0
bronchospasm / Rapid / 0-1.0
visual impairment / Early / 0-1.0
serious hypersensitivity reactions or anaphylaxis / Rapid / Incidence not known
hearing loss / Delayed / Incidence not known
new primary malignancy / Delayed / Incidence not known
tissue necrosis / Early / Incidence not known
hemolytic-uremic syndrome / Delayed / Incidence not known
heart failure / Delayed / Incidence not known
thromboembolism / Delayed / Incidence not known
stroke / Early / Incidence not known

Moderate

hypomagnesemia / Delayed / 29.0-29.0
hyponatremia / Delayed / 29.0-29.0
hypocalcemia / Delayed / 22.0-22.0
hypokalemia / Delayed / 20.0-20.0
elevated hepatic enzymes / Delayed / 15.0-20.0
bleeding / Early / 5.0-8.0
constipation / Delayed / 6.0-6.0
hyperbilirubinemia / Delayed / 5.0-5.0
erythema / Early / 0-2.0
hypotension / Rapid / 0-1.0
bone marrow suppression / Delayed / Incidence not known
stomatitis / Delayed / Incidence not known
hypertension / Early / Incidence not known
dehydration / Delayed / Incidence not known

Mild

nausea / Early / 10.0-93.0
vomiting / Early / 65.0-83.0
alopecia / Delayed / 3.0-49.0
asthenia / Delayed / 11.0-41.0
infection / Delayed / 5.0-16.0
diarrhea / Early / 6.0-6.0
rash / Early / 0-2.0
pruritus / Rapid / 0-2.0
urticaria / Rapid / 0-2.0
dysgeusia / Early / 0-1.0
anorexia / Delayed / Incidence not known
injection site reaction / Rapid / Incidence not known

Boxed Warning
Anemia, bleeding, bone marrow suppression, coagulopathy, herpes infection, infection, neutropenia, radiation therapy, thrombocytopenia, varicella, viral infection

Contraindications to carboplatin include patients with severe bone marrow suppression and significant bleeding; patients with acute leukemia may require treatment with carboplatin despite severe bone marrow suppression. Carboplatin-induced bone marrow suppression is dose-related and is dose limiting. Complete blood counts should be frequently monitored during carboplatin treatment and, when appropriate, until recovery is achieved. Single intermittent courses of carboplatin should not be repeated until leukocyte, neutrophil, and platelet counts have recovered. When used in combination with other myelosuppressive chemotherapy agents, the dose and administration of carboplatin must be carefully reviewed and adjusted to minimize additive effects. Carboplatin should be used cautiously in patients with coagulopathy, reduced renal function, or in those who have received previous cisplatin or myelosuppressive therapy such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy; these patients may require reduced dosages (i.e., lower target AUC values). Carboplatin is a radiation sensitizer and patients may experience severe myelosuppression or other toxicities with concurrent use. Patients with preexisting bone marrow suppression should be allowed to recover their counts prior to carboplatin administration. Severe thrombocytopenia (< 50,000/mm3) or neutropenia (< 500/mm3) following carboplatin treatment indicates the need for a dose reduction for subsequent courses. Anemia is cumulative; transfusions or use of red blood cell growth factors may be needed during carboplatin therapy, especially during prolonged treatment. Patients with an active infection should be treated prior to receiving carboplatin when possible. Patients with a history of varicella zoster, other herpes infection (e.g., herpes simplex), or other viral infection are at risk for reactivation of the infection when treated with chemotherapy.

Requires a specialized care setting, requires an experienced clinician

Carboplatin therapy requires an experienced clinician in the management of cancer chemotherapy. Carboplatin administration requires a specialized care setting adequate for the appropriate management of carboplatin therapy and complications.

Vomiting

Vomiting occurs frequently with carboplatin therapy; ensure that patients are premedicated with appropriate antiemetic therapy prior to initiating therapy with carboplatin.

Common Brand Names

Paraplatin

Dea Class

Rx

Description

Platinum alkylating antineoplastic agent; on a molar basis, carboplatin is 45 times less cytotoxic than cisplatin; as effective as cisplatin in ovarian, non-small cell and small cell lung cancers; not recommended for routine treatment of testicular or head and neck cancers.

Dosage And Indications
For the treatment of ovarian cancer. For the first-line treatment of ovarian cancer in combination with paclitaxel†. Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 5 to 7.5 IV on day 1 in combination with paclitaxel (175 to 185 mg/m2 IV over 3 hours on day 1), every 3 weeks for 6 cycles. In clinical trials, carboplatin combined with paclitaxel has been shown to be less toxic and produce similar efficacy to cisplatin combined with paclitaxel as first-line treatment of patients with advanced ovarian cancer. Additionally, carboplatin AUC 6 IV on day 1 in combination with paclitaxel (80 mg/m2 IV on days 1, 8, and 15), every 3 weeks for 6 cycles has been given. This dose-dense combination was compared to conventional carboplatin/paclitaxel in 631 patients with advanced ovarian cancer. Progression-free survival, the primary endpoint, was significantly higher in the dose-dense arm (28 months vs. 17.2 months, p = 0.0015).

For the first-line treatment of ovarian cancer in combination with docetaxel†. Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 5 IV on day 1, immediately preceded by docetaxel (75 mg/m2 IV over 1 hour on day 1), repeated every 3 weeks for 6 cycles. In a phase III trial of 1077 patients, carboplatin combined with docetaxel was compared to carboplatin combined with paclitaxel. No significant differences in response rate, progression-free survival, or overall survival were observed between the 2 groups. Grades 2 to 4 neurosensory toxicity were significantly greater in the paclitaxel containing regimen (30% vs. 11%, p < 0.001) and grades 3 to 4 neutropenia were significantly higher in the docetaxel containing regimen (94% vs. 84%, p < 0.001).

For the first-line treatment of or palliative treatment of recurrent advanced ovarian cancer. Intravenous dosage Adults

For patients with previously untreated ovarian cancer, administer carboplatin 300 mg/m2 IV on day 1 in combination with cyclophosphamide (600 mg/m2 IV on day 1), repeated every 4 weeks for 6 cycles. For patients with recurrent ovarian cancer, administer single-agent carboplatin 360 mg/m2 IV (or AUC 5 to 6) on day 1, repeated every 4 weeks. Dosage adjustments should be made according to the lowest post-treatment platelet or neutrophil value as assessed by weekly blood counts.

Intraperitoneal dosage† Adults

200 to 650 mg/m2 intraperitoneally every 4 to 6 weeks has been studied. In 1 trial, 350 mg/m2 intraperitoneally with cyclophosphamide IV every 3 to 4 weeks resulted in similar response and survival rates as carboplatin 350 mg/m2 IV and cyclophosphamide IV with less myelotoxicity.

For treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)†. For the treatment of advanced or metastatic NSCLC in combination with paclitaxel†. Intravenous dosage Adults

Carboplatin AUC 6 IV in combination with paclitaxel (200 mg/m2) IV on day 1 given every 21 days produced an overall survival of 12.3 months in a phase 3 comparison of 4 chemotherapy doublets in advanced NSCLC. In another similar 4-arm phase 3 comparison, carboplatin AUC 6 IV on day 1 in combination with paclitaxel 225 mg/m2 IV on day 1 given every 21 days, produced an overall survival of 7.8 months, which was similar to the reference regimen of cisplatin and paclitaxel.

For first-line treatment of inoperable, locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in combination with gemcitabine†. Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 5 IV on day 1 in combination with gemcitabine 1,200 mg/m2 IV on days 1 and 8, every 21 days for 6 cycles. Alternatively, carboplatin AUC 5 IV on day 1 with gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 IV on days 1, 8 and 15, repeated every 28 days for 4 cycles or, carboplatin AUC 5 IV day 1 with gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 IV on days 1 and 8, repeated every 21 days for 4 cycles, have also been studied.

For first-line treatment of unresectable, locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in combination with docetaxel†. Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 6 IV in combination with docetaxel (75 mg/m2 IV) on day 1 given every 21 days for 4 to 6 cycles. In a phase 3 trial of 1,203 patients with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC, docetaxel and platinum combinations (cisplatin or carboplatin) were compared with cisplatin/vinorelbine. No difference was observed between docetaxel/carboplatin and cisplatin/vinorelbine in overall survival, the primary endpoint. Grade 3 and 4 anemia and nausea/vomiting were significantly lower in both docetaxel containing arms. In addition, hospitalizations and treatment discontinuation secondary to toxicity were higher with cisplatin/vinorelbine. A separate phase 3 trial conducted in 422 patients with inoperable, locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC compared docetaxel/carboplatin to mitomycin C/cisplatin plus either ifosfamide or vinblastine. The primary endpoint, 1-year overall survival, was not significantly different between the treatment arms. Grade 3 and 4 neutropenia, infection, and mucositis were all significantly higher with docetaxel/carboplatin, while quality of life scores were significantly better.

For the first-line treatment of stage IIIB or IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in combination with pemetrexed†. Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 5 IV in combination with pemetrexed (500 mg/m2 IV) on day 1, repeated every 3 weeks for 4 cycles. In a phase 3 trial, 436 patients were randomized to pemetrexed/carboplatin or gemcitabine/carboplatin. No significant differences were observed for the primary endpoint, health-related quality of life, or the secondary endpoint, overall survival. Grade 3 or 4 toxicities were significantly worse in the gemcitabine/carboplatin arm.

For the first-line treatment of locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients who are not candidates for curative surgery or radiation in combination with nanoparticle albumin-bound paclitaxel†.
NOTE: Nanoparticle albumin-bound paclitaxel is FDA approved in combination with carboplatin for the first-line treatment of locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC.
Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 6 IV on day 1 in combination with nanoparticle albumin-bound (nab) paclitaxel (100 mg/m2 IV over 30 minutes on days 1, 8, and 15), repeated every 21 days; administer carboplatin immediately after the nab-paclitaxel infusion on day 1. Nab-paclitaxel plus carboplatin was noninferior to paclitaxel plus carboplatin in patients with previously untreated non-resectable stage IIIB or stage IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in a multicenter, randomized, phase 3 trial (n = 1,052). The primary endpoint of overall response rate (ORR) assessed by independent radiologic review was significantly improved with nab-paclitaxel/carboplatin compared with solvent-based (sb) paclitaxel plus carboplatin (33% vs. 25%); all responding patients in the nab-paclitaxel arm had a partial response (PR) while 1 patient in the sb-paclitaxel arm achieved a complete response. In a subgroup analysis, the ORR was significantly improved with nab-paclitaxel plus carboplatin in patients with squamous cell histology (41% vs. 24%) but not nonsquamous cell histology (26% vs. 25%). Median progression-free survival (6.3 months vs. 5.8 months) and overall survival (12.1 months vs. 11.2 months) were nonsignificantly improved with nab-paclitaxel/carboplatin.

For first-line treatment of metastatic, nonsquamous, NSCLC, in combination with pemetrexed and pembrolizumab†.
NOTE: Both pemetrexed and pembrolizumab are FDA-approved for this indication.
Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 5 IV on day 1 and pemetrexed (500 mg/m2 IV on day 1) repeated every 21 days for 4 cycles in combination with pembrolizumab (200 mg IV on day 1 every 3 weeks OR 400 mg IV on day 1 every 6 weeks). Administer pembrolizumab prior to pemetrexed and chemotherapy when given on the same day. After the initial dose, monitor the nadir ANC and platelet count to assess for possible pemetrexed dose reductions. In a multicenter double-blind clinical trial (KEYNOTE-189), patients with previously untreated metastatic, EGFR- and ALK-negative, nonsquamous NSCLC, regardless of PD-L1 status, were randomized to treatment with pemetrexed plus either cisplatin or carboplatin, in combination with either pembrolizumab (n = 410) or placebo (n = 206). After a median follow-up of 31 months, the median overall survival (22 months vs. 10.6 months), progression-free survival (9 months vs. 4.9 months), and overall response rate (48.3% vs. 19.9%) were significantly improved in the pembrolizumab arm. The median duration of response was 12.5 months for patients who received pembrolizumab plus pemetrexed/platinum chemotherapy compared with 7.1 months in those receiving placebo plus pemetrexed/platinum chemotherapy.

For the first-line treatment of metastatic squamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), in combination with pembrolizumab and either paclitaxel or nab-paclitaxel†.
NOTE: Pembrolizumab is FDA-approved in combination with carboplatin and either paclitaxel or nab-paclitaxel for this indication.
Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 6 IV on day 1 with either paclitaxel (200 mg/m2 IV on day 1) or nab-paclitaxel (100 mg/m2 IV on days 1, 8, and 15) repeated every 3 weeks for 4 cycles in combination with pembrolizumab (200 mg IV on day 1 every 3 weeks OR 400 mg IV on day 1 every 6 weeks). Administer pembrolizumab prior to chemotherapy when given on the same day. Following completion of platinum-based therapy, pembrolizumab may be continued as maintenance therapy until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity, for up to 24 months. In a multicenter, randomized, double-blind clinical trial (KEYNOTE-407), treatment with pembrolizumab plus carboplatin and either paclitaxel or nab-paclitaxel (n = 278) significantly improved median overall survival (17.2 months vs. 11.6 months) and progression-free survival (6.4 months vs. 4.8 months) compared with placebo plus carboplatin and paclitaxel/nab-paclitaxel (n = 281) in patients with metastatic squamous NSCLC. The overall response rate was also significantly improved in the pembrolizumab arm (58% vs. 35%), for a median duration of 7.2 months and 4.9 months, respectively.

For the first-line treatment of metastatic nonsquamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) without EGFR or ALK mutations, in combination with atezolizumab, bevacizumab, and paclitaxel†.
NOTE: Atezolizumab is FDA-approved in combination with bevacizumab, paclitaxel, and carboplatin for this indication.
Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 6 IV on day 1, every 3 weeks for a maximum of 4 to 6 cycles of chemotherapy. Administer in combination with paclitaxel (200 mg/m2 IV, or 175 mg/m2 IV in Asian patients, every 3 weeks for up to 4 to 6 cycles), bevacizumab (15 mg/kg IV until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity), and atezolizumab (840 mg IV every 2 weeks; OR 1,200 mg IV every 3 weeks; OR 1,680 mg IV every 4 weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity). Administer atezolizumab prior to bevacizumab and chemotherapy when given on the same day. Coadministration of certain drugs may need to be avoided or dosage adjustments may be necessary; review drug interactions. In a multicenter, randomized, open-label, phase 3 clinical trial (IMpower150), treatment with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab/paclitaxel/carboplatin (ABCP) significantly improved overall survival in patients with metastatic nonsquamous NSCLC compared with BCP without atezolizumab (19.2 months vs. 14.7 months); overall survival with atezolizumab/paclitaxel/carboplatin was not significantly different from BCP. Progression-free survival was also significantly improved in the ABCP arm compared with BCP (8.5 months vs. 7 months). The objective response rate was 55% (complete response [CR], 4%) versus 42% (CR, 1%), respectively, for a median duration of 10.8 months and 6.5 months, respectively.

For the first-line treatment of unresectable, locally advanced, recurrent, or metastatic non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in combination with bevacizumab and paclitaxel†.
NOTE: Bevacizumab is FDA-approved for this indication in combination with paclitaxel and carboplatin.
Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 6 IV on day 1, preceded by bevacizumab (15 mg/kg IV over 90 minutes) and paclitaxel (200 mg/m2 IV over 3 hours), every 3 weeks for 6 cycles of chemotherapy. After completion of chemotherapy, continue bevacizumab (15 mg/kg IV), on day 1 of each 21-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. To prevent hypersensitivity reactions, all patients should be premedicated with dexamethasone 20 mg PO approximately 12 and 6 hours before paclitaxel, diphenhydramine (or equivalent) 50 mg IV 30 to 60 minutes before paclitaxel, and an IV H2-blocker 30 to 60 minutes before paclitaxel. If the first bevacizumab infusion is well tolerated, the second infusion may be given over 60 minutes; if the 60-minute infusion is well tolerated, subsequent infusions may be given over 30 minutes. In a randomized, open-label clinical trial (n = 878), median overall survival was significantly longer in chemotherapy-naive patients with locally advanced, metastatic, or recurrent nonsquamous NSCLC treated with bevacizumab/paclitaxel/carboplatin (BCP) compared with paclitaxel/carboplatin (CP) alone (12.3 months vs. 10.3 months); investigator-assessed progression-free survival (PFS) was also longer in the bevacizumab arm. In an exploratory analysis, the impact of bevacizumab was not significant in women, patients age 65 years and older, or in patients with weight loss of 5% or more at study entry.

For the first-line treatment of metastatic nonsquamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) without EGFR or ALK mutations, in combination with nanoparticle albumin-bound (nab) paclitaxel and atezolizumab.
NOTE: Atezolizumab is FDA-approved in combination with nab-paclitaxel and carboplatin for this indication.
Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 6 IV on day 1, every 3 weeks for a maximum of 4 to 6 cycles of chemotherapy. Administer in combination with nab-paclitaxel (100 mg/m2 IV on days 1, 8, and 15) and atezolizumab (840 mg IV every 2 weeks; OR 1,200 mg IV every 3 weeks; OR 1,680 mg IV every 4 weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity). Administer atezolizumab prior to chemotherapy when given on the same day. Coadministration of certain drugs may need to be avoided or dosage adjustments may be necessary; review drug interactions. First-line treatment of EGFR- and ALK-negative metastatic NSCLC with atezolizumab plus nab-paclitaxel and carboplatin significantly improved median overall survival (18.6 months vs. 13.9 months) and median progression-free survival (7.2 months vs. 6.5 months) compared with nab-paclitaxel and carboplatin alone in a multicenter, randomized, open-label trial (IMpower130). The overall response rate was 46% (complete response [CR], 5%) in the atezolizumab arm compared with 32% (CR, 1%) in the control arm, for a median duration of 10.8 months versus 7.8 months, respectively.

For treatment of head and neck cancer†. For the treatment of advanced-stage squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck in combination with 5-fluorouracil and radiation therapy†. Intravenous dosage Adults

70 mg/m2/day IV on days 1 through 4 in combination with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) (600 mg/m2/day continuous IV infusion on days 1 through 4). Chemotherapy cycles were started on days 1, 22, and 43 and were administered concurrently with radiotherapy (RT). In a phase III trial, 226 patients with stage III or IV squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx (no evidence of distant metastasis) were randomized to receive RT alone or concomitantly with carboplatin/5-FU. Overall survival at 5 years was significantly improved in the chemoradiotherapy arm (22.4% vs. 15.8%, p = 0.05). The 5-year specific disease free survival rate (26.6% vs. 14.6%, p = 0.01) and locoregional control rate (47.6% vs. 24.7%, p = 0.002) were also significantly improved with chemoradiotherapy. Hematologic and skin toxicities were more common in chemoradiotherapy arm. In addition, grades 3 and 4 mucositis and poor nutritional status occurred more frequently with concomitant therapy. There were no significant differences in late toxic effects between the arms when assessed at 5 years.

For the treatment of recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck in combination with 5-fluorouracil†. Intravenous dosage Adults

300 mg/m2 IV on day 1 in combination with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) (1,000 mg/m2/day continuous IV infusion over 96 hours on days 1 through 4); repeated every 4 weeks. In a phase III trial, 277 patients were randomized to receive carboplatin-5-FU, cisplatin-5-FU, or methotrexate (MTX). An increase in overall response rate was achieved with carboplatin-5-FU versus MTX, which was of borderline statistical significance (21% vs. 10%, p = 0.05). The overall response rate was numerically lower with carboplatin/5-FU compared to cisplatin-5-FU (21% vs. 32%).

For the first-line treatment of recurrent locoregional disease or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck in combination with fluorouracil and cetuximab†.
NOTE: Cetuximab is FDA-approved for the first-line treatment of recurrent locoregional disease or metastatic squamous cell head and neck cancer in combination with platinum-based chemotherapy and fluorouracil.
Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 5 IV on day 1, in combination with fluorouracil (1,000 mg/m2 per day IV infusion over days 1 to 4), every 3 weeks for up to 6 cycles. Administer with cetuximab (400 mg/m2 IV as an initial loading dose on day 1 followed by weekly infusions of cetuximab 250 mg/m2 IV; alternatively, cetuximab may be administered at a dose of 500 mg/m2 IV every 2 weeks). Complete cetuximab administration 1 hour prior to chemotherapy and continue until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. In a phase 3 trial, 442 patients were randomized to receive a platinum (cisplatin or carboplatin) and fluorouracil with or without cetuximab. Overall survival, the primary endpoint, was significantly greater with the addition of cetuximab to chemotherapy compared with chemotherapy alone (10.1 months vs. 7.4 months). However, sepsis, hypomagnesemia, grade 3 skin reactions, and grade 3 or 4 infusion reactions occurred more frequently with the addition of cetuximab.

For the treatment of advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck in combination with paclitaxel and radiotherapy†. Intravenous dosage Adults

100 mg/m2 IV weekly in combination with paclitaxel (40 to 45 mg/m2 IV weekly). Chemotherapy was administered weekly prior to radiation therapy. In a clinical trial, 62 patients were administered carboplatin-paclitaxel concomitantly with radiation therapy. An overall survival of 33 months was achieved. A complete response (CR) occurred in 75% of patients; among patients with a CR, an overall survival of 49 months was achieved. At a follow-up of 30 months, a local control rate of 63% was observed.

For treatment of testicular cancer†. For the treatment of testicular cancer in combination with etoposide and bleomycin†. Intravenous dosage Adults

Carboplatin AUC 5 IV on day 1 in combination with etoposide (120 mg/m2/day IV on days 1 through 3) and bleomycin (30 international units on day 2), repeated every 21 days for 4 cycles has been used. In a randomized trial, the combination of carboplatin (AUC 5), etoposide, and bleomycin (CEB) was compared with the standard regimen of bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin (BEP) in patients with good-prognosis, metastatic testicular cancer. The combination containing carboplatin resulted in a significantly lower response rate than the cisplatin-containing regimen (87.3% vs. 94.4%, respectively).

For the treatment of stage I seminoma†. Intravenous dosage Adults

Single dose carboplatin IV (AUC 7 if measured by EDTA; 90% of that dose if measured by 24-hour urinary creatinine clearance) after resection. In a phase III trial of patients with stage I seminoma, no difference in relapse-free rates were observed between single dose carboplatin and adjuvant radiotherapy amongst the 1,447 patients who met the minimum follow-up requirement of 5 years. Contralateral germ-cell tumors occurred in only 2 patients randomized to receive carboplatin as compared to 15 patients randomized to receive radiotherapy.

For the treatment of relapsed or refractory non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL)† in combination with ifosfamide and etoposide. Intravenous dosage Adults

Carboplatin AUC 5 IV on day 2 (Max: 800 mg), ifosfamide 5 g/m2 IV mixed with equal dose of mesna via continuous intravenous infusion over 24 hours beginning on day 2, and etoposide 100 mg/m2/day on days 1 through 3, every 2 weeks (ICE regimen) for 3 cycles, was developed to treated relapsed NHL and allow for adequate stem cell collection prior to transplant. Alternative dosage regimens have been used, including some in the outpatient setting.

For stem cell transplant preparation†. For stem cell transplant preparation, in combination with ifosfamide and etoposide, prior to autologous stem cell transplant for the treatment of relapsed or refractory germ cell tumor†. Intravenous dosage Adults

Ifosfamide 0 to 10 g/m2 IV in 4 divided doses on days -6 to -3, in combination with carboplatin 1,500 to 2,000 mg/m2 IV in 3 divided doses on days -6 to -4 (1,500 mg/m2) or in 4 divided doses on days -6 to -3 (more than 1,500 mg/m2), and etoposide 1,200 to 2,400 mg/m2 IV in 4 divided doses on days -6 to -3. Ifosfamide was administered on days -6 to -3 as a 22-hour infusion and mesna (each dose was 20% of the total dose/day of ifosfamide) was administered before the start of ifosfamide and every 6 hours after, including 2 doses after the final ifosfamide infusion. Each carboplatin dose was administered as a 1 hour infusion. Etoposide was administered undiluted through a central line.

For stem cell mobilization in combination with ifosfamide and etoposide, in transplant eligible patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Intravenous dosage Adults

Etoposide 100 mg/m2/day IV on days 1 to 3 in combination with carboplatin AUC 5 (Max dose: 800 mg) IV on day 2 and ifosfamide 5 g/m2 mixed with an equal dose of mesna administered via continuous IV infusion for 24 hours beginning day 2. Filgrastim was administered at 10 mcg/kg/day starting on day 5 until completion of leukapheresis.

For the treatment of malignant glioma†. For the treatment of recurrent grade III malignant glioma in combination with teniposide†. Intravenous dosage Adults

350 mg/m2 IV on day 1 in combination with teniposide 50 mg/m2/day IV on days 1, 2, and 3, every 28 days. Treatment has been studied up to a maximum of 10 cycles.

For the treatment of previously untreated, low-grade malignant glioma in combination with vincristine†. Intravenous dosage Adolescents <= 16 years, Children, and Infants > 3 months

175 mg/m2 IV once weekly on weeks 1 through 4 and 7 through 10 in combination with vincristine 1.5 mg/m2 IV (Max dose: 2 mg) once weekly on weeks 1 through 10 as induction therapy. Begin maintenance therapy on week 12 with carboplatin 175 mg/m2 IV once weekly for 4 weeks and vincristine 1.5 mg/m2 (Max dose: 2 mg) IV once weekly for 3 weeks repeated every 6 weeks for 8 cycles. Do not start maintenance therapy or the next cycle of maintenance therapy until the ANC is more than 1,000 cells/mm3 and the platelet count is more than 100,000 cells/mm3.

For the treatment of recurrent high-grade malignant glioma†. Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 5 IV on day 1, every 28 days for 6 cycles. Alternately, carboplatin 350 to 400 mg/m2 IV on day 1, every 21 days for up to 8 cycles, has also been studied.

For the first-line treatment of advanced transitional-cell bladder cancer†, in combination with paclitaxel. Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC of 6 IV over 30 minutes on day 1 following paclitaxel 225 mg/m2 IV over 3 hours repeated every 21 days (CP regimen) for 6 cycles was compared with methotrexate 30 mg/m2 on days 1, 15, and 22, vinblastine 3 mg/m2 IV on days 2, 15, and 22, doxorubicin 30 mg/m2 on day 2, and cisplatin 70 mg/m2 on day 2 (MVAC regimen) in a randomized, phase III trial. In this study, the median overall survival (OS) times were 13.8 and 15.4 months with CP and MVAC, respectively (p = 0.75) in 85 patients (median follow-up of 32.5 months). This study was halted due to slow patient accrual and was therefore underpowered to detect a difference in the primary endpoint of OS. The progression-free survival time was 5.2 months in the CP arm and 8.7 months in the MVAC arm (p = 0.24). Grade 3 or higher toxicity reported less often with CP compared with MVAC included neutropenia (29% vs. 67%), anemia (5% vs. 38%), thrombocytopenia (10% vs. 21%), fatigue (10% vs. 24%), and dyspnea (2% vs. 14%); grade 3 sensory neuropathy occurred more often with CP (15% vs. 2%). Additionally, worst degree toxicity of grade 4 or higher occurred in fewer patients in the CP arm (15% vs. 33%) and there was 1 treatment-related death in each study arm.

For the treatment of breast cancer†. For adjuvant treatment of patients with HER2 overexpressing node-positive or high-risk node negative breast cancer†, in combination with docetaxel and trastuzumab.
NOTE: Trastuzumab is FDA approved for the treatment of HER2 overexpressing node-positive or high-risk node negative breast cancer in combination with carboplatin and docetaxel. Carboplatin is not FDA approved for the treatment of breast cancer.
Intravenous dosage Adults

Carboplatin AUC 6 IV with docetaxel (75 mg/m2 IV) on day 1 repeated every 3 weeks for a total of 6 cycles plus trastuzumab (8 mg/kg IV infusion on week 1, followed by 6 mg/kg IV infusion every 3 weeks for a total of 52 weeks) (TCH regimen). Interim analysis of a phase 3 trial comparing the TCH regimen versus doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, docetaxel, and trastuzumab showed similar efficacy. The incidence of cardiac toxicity is significantly less with TCH.

For the first-line treatment of metastatic breast cancer in combination with paclitaxel†. Intravenous dosage Adults

Carboplatin AUC 6 IV on day 1 in combination with paclitaxel 175 mg/m2 IV over 3 hours on day 1, every 3 weeks for 6 cycles has been studied.

For the front-line treatment of HER2-overexpressing metastatic breast cancer† in combination with paclitaxel and trastuzumab. Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 6 IV in combination with paclitaxel 175 mg/m2 IV beginning in week 1 repeated every 3 weeks for 6 cycles. Alternatively, carboplatin AUC 2 IV and paclitaxel 80 mg/m2 IV may be administered weekly for 3 weeks with a 1 week rest to complete 6 4-week cycles. Give both regimens with trastuzumab (4 mg/kg IV on week 1 then 2 mg/kg IV once/week starting week 2), continue trastuzumab until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. A phase 3 trial of 196 patients with previously untreated HER2-overexpressing metastatic breast cancer examined trastuzumab and paclitaxel +/- carboplatin. The primary endpoint, overall response rate, was significantly increased with the addition of carboplatin (52% vs. 36%). Progression-free survival was also significantly better in the carboplatin arm (10.7 months vs. 7.1 months). Grade 4 neutropenia (36% vs. 12%) and grade 3 thrombocytopenia (9% vs. 1%) occurred more frequently in the carboplatin arm. A comparison of 2 parallel phase 2 studies revealed an increase in overall response rate, median time to disease progression, and overall survival with weekly administration of carboplatin/paclitaxel versus every 3 week administration.

For the neoadjuvant treatment of high-risk, early-stage hormone receptor (HR)-negative, HER2-negative (triple-negative) breast cancer, in combination with paclitaxel and pembrolizumab, followed by pembrolizumab/cyclophosphamide/doxorubicin†.
NOTE: Pembrolizumab is FDA-approved in combination with sequential paclitaxel/carboplatin followed by cyclophosphamide/doxorubicin for this indication.
Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 5 IV on day 1 every 3 weeks for 4 cycles in combination with paclitaxel (80 mg/m2 IV once weekly for 12 weeks) and pembrolizumab (200 mg IV every 3 weeks OR 400 mg IV every 6 weeks); administer pembrolizumab prior to chemotherapy when given on the same day. Alternatively, carboplatin may be dosed once weekly at an AUC of 1.5 IV for 12 weeks. After completion of 12 weeks (4 cycles) of pembrolizumab, paclitaxel, and carboplatin, continue neoadjuvant therapy with 4 cycles of doxorubicin (60 mg/m2 IV every 3 weeks) plus cyclophosphamide (600 mg/m2 IV every 3 weeks) and pembrolizumab (200 mg IV every 3 weeks OR 400 mg IV every 6 weeks), followed by surgery; administer pembrolizumab prior to chemotherapy when given on the same day. After surgery, administer pembrolizumab 200 mg IV every 3 weeks for up to 9 doses OR 400 mg IV every 6 weeks for up to 5 doses or until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Do not administer adjuvant pembrolizumab monotherapy to patients with disease progression or unacceptable toxicity related to neoadjuvant treatment with pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy. Coadministration of certain drugs may need to be avoided or dosage adjustments may be necessary; review drug interactions. Patients with high-risk (tumor size more than 1 cm but up to and including 2 cm in diameter with nodal involvement; or tumor size more than 2 cm in diameter regardless of nodal involvement), early stage triple-negative breast cancer were randomized to neoadjuvant treatment with pembrolizumab or placebo in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel, followed by anthracycline and cyclophosphamide in a phase 3 clinical trial (KEYNOTE-522); after definitive surgery, patients received adjuvant pembrolizumab or placebo. Treatment with pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy significantly improved the rate of pathologic complete response (pCR) (63% vs. 55.6%) compared with placebo plus chemotherapy. The median event-free survival (EFS) was not reached in either arm, although EFS at 18 months was 91.3% in patients who received pembrolizumab compared with 85.3% in those who received placebo (HR 0.63; 95% CI, 0.43 to 0.93); overall survival results are immature.

For the neoadjuvant treatment of high-risk, early-stage hormone receptor (HR)-negative, HER2-negative (triple-negative) breast cancer, in combination with paclitaxel and pembrolizumab, followed by pembrolizumab/cyclophosphamide/epirubicin†.
NOTE: Pembrolizumab is FDA-approved in combination with sequential paclitaxel/carboplatin followed by cyclophosphamide/epirubicinfor this indication.
Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 5 IV on day 1 every 3 weeks for 4 cycles in combination with paclitaxel (80 mg/m2 IV once weekly for 12 weeks) and pembrolizumab (200 mg IV every 3 weeks OR 400 mg IV every 6 weeks); administer pembrolizumab prior to chemotherapy when given on the same day. Alternatively, carboplatin may be dosed once weekly at an AUC of 1.5 IV for 12 weeks. After completion of 12 weeks (4 cycles) of pembrolizumab, paclitaxel, and carboplatin, continue neoadjuvant therapy with 4 cycles of epirubicin (90 mg/m2 IV every 3 weeks) plus cyclophosphamide (600 mg/m2 IV every 3 weeks) and pembrolizumab (200 mg IV every 3 weeks OR 400 mg IV every 6 weeks), followed by surgery; administer pembrolizumab prior to chemotherapy when given on the same day. After surgery, administer pembrolizumab 200 mg IV every 3 weeks for up to 9 doses OR 400 mg IV every 6 weeks for up to 5 doses or until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Do not administer adjuvant pembrolizumab monotherapy to patients with disease progression or unacceptable toxicity related to neoadjuvant treatment with pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy. Coadministration of certain drugs may need to be avoided or dosage adjustments may be necessary; review drug interactions. Patients with high-risk (tumor size more than 1 cm but up to and including 2 cm in diameter with nodal involvement; or tumor size more than 2 cm in diameter regardless of nodal involvement), early stage triple-negative breast cancer were randomized to neoadjuvant treatment with pembrolizumab or placebo in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel, followed by anthracycline and cyclophosphamide in a phase 3 clinical trial (KEYNOTE-522); after definitive surgery, patients received adjuvant pembrolizumab or placebo. Treatment with pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy significantly improved the rate of pathologic complete response (pCR) (63% vs. 55.6%) compared with placebo plus chemotherapy. The median event-free survival (EFS) was not reached in either arm, although EFS at 18 months was 91.3% in patients who received pembrolizumab compared with 85.3% in those who received placebo (HR 0.63; 95% CI, 0.43 to 0.93); overall survival results are immature.

For the treatment of locally recurrent unresectable or metastatic, PD-L1 positive (CPS 10 or more), triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), in combination with gemcitabine and pembrolizumab†.
NOTE: Select patients for treatment based on the presence of positive PD-L1 expression. Information on FDA-approved tests for the detection of PD-L1 expression in TNBC is available at http://www.fda.gov/CompanionDiagnostics.
NOTE: Pembrolizumab is FDA-approved in combination with carboplatin and gemcitabine for this indication.
Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 2 IV on days 1 and 8, every 21 days in combination with gemcitabine (1,000 mg/m2 IV on days 1 and 8, every 21 days) and pembrolizumab (200 mg IV repeated every 3 weeks OR 400 mg IV repeated every 6 weeks until disease progression or up to 24 months in patients without progression); the number of cycles of gemcitabine plus carboplatin was not specified.   Administer pembrolizumab prior to chemotherapy when given on the same day. In a multicenter, double-blind clinical trial (KEYNOTE-355), patients with locally recurrent unresectable or metastatic TNBC who had not been previously treated with chemotherapy in the metastatic setting were randomized to treatment with either pembrolizumab or placebo in combination with paclitaxel, nab-paclitaxel, or gemcitabine plus carboplatin regardless of tumor PD-L1 expression. The addition of pembrolizumab to chemotherapy significantly improved the median progression-free survival (9.7 months vs. 5.6 months) compared with placebo plus chemotherapy in the subgroup of patients with a CPS of 10 or more. The objective response rate was 53% compared with 40%, respectively (complete response, 17% vs. 13%) for a median duration of 19.3 months in the pembrolizumab arm and 7.3 months in the placebo arm.

For the treatment of relapsed or refractory acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) in combination with ifosfamide, etoposide, and rituximab†. Intravenous dosage Adults 21 years or younger, Adolescents, and Children

Carboplatin 635 mg/m2 IV on day 3 in combination with ifosfamide 3,000 mg/m2/day IV on days 3, 4, 5 (each dose mixed with mesna 600 mg/m2 IV, followed by mesna 600 mg/m2 IV over 15 minutes at 3, 6, 9, and 12 hours after the start of ifosfamide) and etoposide 100 mg/m2/day IV on days 3, 4, 5, repeated each cycle. Rituximab 375 mg/m2 IV was given on days 1 and 3 of cycles 1 and 2, and on day 3 only of cycle 3. Treatment was given up to a maximum of 3 cycles. Colony-stimulating factors were initiated on day 6 of each cycle and intrathecal chemotherapy was also given as appropriate. Overall response rate was 60% and overall survival at 2 to 3 years was 37.5%.

For the treatment of poor-risk relapsed Wilms' tumor in combination with etoposide and ifosfamide†. Intravenous dosage Adults <= 21 years, Adolescents, and Children

Ifosfamide 1,800 mg/m2/day IV for 5 days (on days 0, 1, 2, 3, 4), carboplatin 400 mg/m2/day IV for 2 days (on day 0, 1) and etoposide 100 mg/m2/day IV for 5 days (on days 0, 1, 2, 3, 4), repeated every 21 days.

For the treatment of intermediate-risk neuroblastoma in combination with etoposide, cyclophosphamide, and doxorubicin†. Intravenous dosage Infants and Children

Carboplatin has been given in combination with etoposide, cyclophosphamide, and doxorubicin, in the following fashion. In Cycles 1 and 7: Carboplatin 560 mg/m2 IV on day 1 (18 mg/kg/day in children less than 12 kg) plus etoposide 120 mg/m2/day IV on days 1, 2, 3 (4 mg/kg/day in children less than 12 kg). Cycles 2 and 6: Carboplatin 560 mg/m2 IV on day 1 (18 mg/kg/day in children less than 12 kg) plus cyclophosphamide 1,000 mg/m2 IV on day 1 (33 mg/kg/day in children less than 12 kg), and doxorubicin 30 mg/m2 IV on day 1 (1 mg/kg/day in children less than 12 kg). Cycles 3 and 5: Cyclophosphamide 1,000 mg/m2 IV on day 1 (33 mg/kg/day in children less than 12 kg) plus etoposide 120 mg/m2/day IV on days 1, 2, 3 (4 mg/kg/day in children less than 12 kg). Cycle 4: Carboplatin 560 mg/m2 IV on day 1 (18 mg/kg/day in children less than 12 kg) plus etoposide 120 mg/m2/day IV on days 1, 2, 3 (4 mg/kg/day in children less than 12 kg), and doxorubicin 30 mg/m2 IV on day 1 (1 mg/kg/day in children less than 12 kg). Cycle 8: Cyclophosphamide 1,000 mg/m2 IV on day 1 (33 mg/kg/day in children less than 12 kg) plus doxorubicin 30 mg/m2 IV on day 1 (1 mg/kg/day in children less than 12 kg). All cycles given at 3 week intervals. Patients with favorable biologic features received 4 cycles; if incomplete response after 4 cycles, patients given an additional 4 cycles. Patients with unfavorable biologic features received 8 cycles. Infants younger than 60 days of age received granulocyte colony-stimulating factor after each cycle.

For the first-line treatment of unresectable, advanced thymoma†, in combination with paclitaxel. Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC of 6 IV over 30 minutes following paclitaxel 225 mg/m2 IV over 3 hours on day 1 repeated every 21 days for up to 6 cycles resulted in an objective response rate (ORR) of 42.9% (complete response rate, 14.3%; median duration of response, 16.9 months) in 21 patients with invasive, recurrent, or metastatic thymoma in a multicenter, phase II study. This ORR was less than the prespecified ORR of 60% that would warrant further study of this regimen. At a median follow-up of 59.4 months, the median progression-free survival time was 16.7 months and the median overall survival time was not reached. Serious toxicity reported in this study included grade 4 neutropenia and grade 3 sensory neuropathy.

For the first-line treatment of unresectable, advanced thymic carcinoma†, in combination with paclitaxel. Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC of 6 IV over 30 minutes following paclitaxel 225 mg/m2 IV over 3 hours on day 1 administered every 21 days for up to 6 cycles resulted in an objective response rate (ORR) of 21.7% (all partial responses; median duration of response, 4.5 months) in 23 patients with invasive, recurrent, or metastatic thymic carcinoma in a multicenter, phase II study. This ORR was less than the prespecified ORR of 45% that would warrant further study of this regimen. At a median follow-up of 63.8 months, the median progression-free survival and overall survival times were 5 and 20 months, respectively. Serious toxicity reported in this study included grade 4 neutropenia and grade 3 sensory neuropathy.

For the treatment of small cell lung cancer (SCLC)†. For the treatment of extensive-stage SCLC, in combination with etoposide†. Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 5 IV on day 1 in combination with etoposide 80 mg/m2/day IV on days 1, 2, 3 per cycle every 3 to 4 weeks up to 4 courses.

For the treatment of limited-stage SCLC, in combination with etoposide and radiation therapy†. Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 6 IV on day 1 in combination with etoposide 100 mg/m2/day IV on days 1, 2, 3, every 3 weeks for 6 courses. Hyperfractionated thoracic radiation therapy should be given concurrently with chemotherapy.

For the treatment of relapsed SCLC in combination with paclitaxel†. Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 7 IV on day 1 in combination with paclitaxel 175 mg/m2 IV on day 1, every 3 weeks for 5 cycles.

For the first-line treatment of extensive-stage SCLC, in combination with etoposide and atezolizumab†. Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 5 IV on day 1, every 3 weeks for 4 cycles. Administer in combination with etoposide (100 mg/m2 IV on days 1, 2, and 3, every 3 weeks for 4 cycles) and atezolizumab (840 mg IV every 2 weeks; OR 1,200 mg IV every 3 weeks; OR 1,680 mg IV every 4 weeks). Administer atezolizumab prior to chemotherapy when given on the same day. In a randomized, double-blind, phase 3 clinical trial (IMpower133), the addition of atezolizumab to carboplatin plus etoposide significantly improved overall survival (12.3 months vs. 10.3 months) and progression-free survival (5.2 months vs. 4.3 months) compared with placebo plus carboplatin/etoposide. Survival at 1 year was 51.7% versus 38.2%, respectively. Treatment was well-tolerated, with 56.5% of patients in the atezolizumab arm experiencing grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions compared with 56.1% of those in the placebo arm. Immune-related adverse reactions occurred in 39.9% versus 24.5% of patients, respectively.

For the first-line treatment of extensive-stage SCLC, in combination with etoposide and durvalumab.
NOTE: Durvalumab is FDA-approved in combination with carboplatin and etoposide for this indication.
Intravenous dosage Adults weighing more than 30 kg

AUC 5 to 6 IV on day 1 plus etoposide (80 to 100 mg/m2 IV on days 1 to 3), following administration of durvalumab (1,500 mg IV over 60 minutes on day 1), every 3 weeks for 4 cycles; administer durvalumab prior to chemotherapy when given on the same day. After completion of 4 cycles of durvalumab plus chemotherapy, continue durvalumab 1,500 mg IV every 4 weeks as a single agent until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Durvalumab significantly improved overall survival by approximately 3 months when added to platinum-etoposide chemotherapy compared with platinum-etoposide alone in patients with extensive-stage SCLC in a randomized clinical trial.

Adults weighing 30 kg or less

AUC 5 to 6 IV on day 1 plus etoposide (80 to 100 mg/m2 IV on days 1 to 3), following administration of durvalumab (20 mg/kg IV over 60 minutes on day 1), every 3 weeks for 4 cycles; administer durvalumab prior to chemotherapy when given on the same day. After completion of 4 cycles of durvalumab plus chemotherapy, continue durvalumab 20 mg/kg IV every 4 weeks as a single agent until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Durvalumab significantly improved overall survival by approximately 3 months when added to platinum-etoposide chemotherapy compared with platinum-etoposide alone in patients with extensive-stage SCLC in a randomized clinical trial.

For the treatment of glioblastoma multiforme† after failing prior bevacizumab-based therapy, in combination with irinotecan and bevacizumab. Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 4 IV on day 1 in combination with irinotecan (enzyme-inducing antiepileptic drug: 340 mg/m2 IV on days 1 and 15; non-enzyme-inducing antiepileptic drug: 125 mg/m2 IV on days 1 and 15) and bevacizumab 10 mg/kg IV on days 1 and 15, every 28 days for up to 12 cycles.

For the treatment of previously untreated, advanced, unresectable pleural malignant mesothelioma, in combination with pemetrexed†. Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 5 IV over 30 minutes on day 1; 30 minutes prior to carboplatin infusion on day 1, administer pemetrexed 500 mg/m2 IV over 10 minutes. Repeat every 21 days for up to 6 cycles, until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Premedicate pemetrexed with dexamethasone 4 mg by mouth twice daily for 3 days, beginning the day before pemetrexed administration to reduce cutaneous reactions. Additionally, supplement with folic acid (400 to 1,000 mcg by mouth daily) and vitamin B12 (1 mg IM every 3 months) beginning 7 days prior to the first dose of pemetrexed and continuing for 21 days after the last dose to reduce the severity and frequency of hematologic and GI toxicities; after the first dose, vitamin B12 may be given on the same day as pemetrexed. Do not substitute oral for IM vitamin B12.

For the treatment of urothelial carcinoma†. For the first-line treatment of locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma, in combination with gemcitabine and atezolizumab†. Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 4.5 IV on day 1, in combination with gemcitabine (1,000 mg/m2 IV on days 1 and 8) and atezolizumab (1,200 mg IV over 60 minutes on day 1), every 21 days for up to 6 cycles. In a randomized phase 3 trial (the IMvigor 130 trial), the addition of atezolizumab to platinum-based chemotherapy in patients with metastatic urothelial cancer significantly improved progression-free survival (PFS) compared with platinum-based chemotherapy alone in the intent-to-treat population; the PFS benefit in the atezolizumab arm was seen across all subgroups, although it was not statistically significant in several including patients with PD-L1 0/1 expression and in patients receiving carboplatin- versus cisplatin-based regimens. At an interim analysis after 11.8 months of follow-up, overall survival was not significantly different between groups.

For the adjuvant treatment of locally advanced urothelial cancer of the upper urinary tract (UTUC), in combination with gemcitabine†. Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 4.5 or 5 IV over 1 hour on day 1, in combination with gemcitabine (1,000 mg/m2 IV over 30 minutes on day 1 and 8), every 21 days for 4 cycles. In a randomized, phase 3 clinical trial, treatment with gemcitabine plus either cisplatin or carboplatin significantly improved disease-free survival in patients with locally advanced UTUC when initiated within 90 days after radical nephroureterectomy compared with surveillance. Based on recommendations from the independent data monitoring committee, study enrollment was ended early and patients still within the 90-day window from nephroureterectomy were offered chemotherapy.

For the treatment of endometrial cancer†. For the treatment of mismatch repair deficient (dMMR) or microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) primary advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer, in combination with dostarlimab and paclitaxel following by single-agent dostarlimab therapy†.
NOTE: Dostarlimab is FDA approved in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel for this indication.
NOTE: Select patients for treatment based on the presence of dMMR in the tumor specimen. Information on FDA-approved tests for the detection of dMMR status is available at www.fda.gov/companiondiagnostics.
Intravenous dosage Adults

AUC 5 on day 1 plus dostarlimab (500 mg IV on day 1) and paclitaxel (175 mg/m2 on day 1) repeated every 3 weeks for 6 doses; administer dostarlimab prior to chemotherapy on day 1 of each cycle. Starting 3 weeks after the sixth dose, give single-agent dostarlimab 1,000 mg IV every 6 weeks until disease progression or for up to 3 years. At a median follow-up time of approximately 25 months, the 24-month investigator-assessed progression-free survival rates were significantly higher the dostarlimab plus carboplatin and paclitaxel arm compared with the placebo plus carboplatin and paclitaxel arm in patients with primary advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer in the overall study population (n = 494; 36.1% vs. 18.1%; hazard ratio (HR) = 0.64; 95% CI, 0.51 to 0.8) and in a subpopulation of 118 patients with dMMR/MSI-H tumors (61.4% vs. 15.7%; HR = 0.28; 95% CI, 0.16 to 0.5) in a randomized, double-blind, phase 3 (RUBY) trial. At the time of this interim analysis, the 24-month overall survival rates were also significantly improved in patients who received dostarlimab compared with placebo in the overall (71.3% vs. 56%; HR = 0.64; 95% CI, 0.46 to 0.87) and dMMR/MSI-H subgroup (83.3% vs. 58.7%; HR = 0.3; 95% CI, 0.13 to 0.7) populations. In the overall population, 54.7% of patients had endometrioid carcinoma-type endometrial cancer, 47.8% of patients had recurrent disease, and 82.6% had not received external pelvic radiation.

†Indicates off-label use

Dosing Considerations
Hepatic Impairment

No dosage adjustments are needed in patients with hepatic impairment.

Renal Impairment

NOTE: Recommendations are only available for the initial course of treatment for ovarian cancer with carboplatin as a single agent or with cyclophosphamide. Subsequent adjustments should be done base on the toxicity of the previous course.
CrCl >= 60 ml/min: no dosage adjustment needed.
CrCl 41—59 ml/min: give 250 mg/m2 on day 1 of the initial course for ovarian cancer.
CrCl 16—40 ml/min: give 200 mg/m2 on day 1 of the initial course for ovarian cancer.
CrCl <= 15 ml/min: Data too limited to permit a recommendation.
 
Intermittent hemodialysis
Multiple reports document the use of carboplatin in patients who are receiving concurrent hemodialysis. Most of the reports indicate that carboplatin is removed by hemodialysis. Studies indicate that anuric patients may receive carboplatin at initial doses not exceeding 150 mg/m2 IV followed by dialysis within 24—48 hours of treatment (written communication, Bristol-Myers Squibb Oncology/Immunology Division, September 1999).

Drug Interactions

Amikacin: (Moderate) Patients previously or currently treated with other potentially nephrotoxic agents, such as systemic aminoglycosides, can have a greater risk of developing carboplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. These patients may benefit from hydration prior to carboplatin therapy to lessen the incidence of nephrotoxicity. Monitor renal function closely.
Aminoglycosides: (Moderate) Patients previously or currently treated with other potentially nephrotoxic agents, such as systemic aminoglycosides, can have a greater risk of developing carboplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. These patients may benefit from hydration prior to carboplatin therapy to lessen the incidence of nephrotoxicity. Monitor renal function closely.
Bictegravir; Emtricitabine; Tenofovir Alafenamide: (Moderate) Monitor for changes in renal function if tenofovir alafenamide is administered in combination with a nephrotoxic agent, such as carboplatin. Tenofovir is primarily excreted via the kidneys by a combination of glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion. Coadministration of tenofovir alafenamide with a drug that reduces renal function or competes for active tubular secretion may increase concentrations of tenofovir and other renally eliminated drugs; thus, increasing the risk of developing renal-related adverse reactions.
Capreomycin: (Major) Since capreomycin is eliminated by the kidney, coadministration with other potentially nephrotoxic drugs, including carboplatin, may increase serum concentrations of either drug. Theoretically, the chronic coadministration of these drugs may increase the risk of developing nephrotoxicity, even in patients who have normal renal function. Monitor patients for changes in renal function if these drugs are coadministered.
Cholera Vaccine: (Moderate) Patients receiving immunosuppressant medications may have a diminished response to the live cholera vaccine. When feasible, administer indicated vaccines prior to initiating immunosuppressant medications. Counsel patients receiving immunosuppressant medications about the possibility of a diminished vaccine response and to continue to follow precautions to avoid exposure to cholera bacteria after receiving the vaccine.
Clindamycin: (Moderate) Concomitant use of carboplatin and clindamycin may result in additive nephrotoxicity. Monitor for renal toxicity if concomitant use is required.
Clozapine: (Major) It is unclear if concurrent use of other drugs known to cause neutropenia (e.g., antineoplastic agents) increases the risk or severity of clozapine-induced neutropenia. Because there is no strong rationale for avoiding clozapine in patients treated with these drugs, consider increased absolute neutrophil count (ANC) monitoring and consult the treating oncologist.
Colistimethate, Colistin, Polymyxin E: (Major) Both colistimethate sodium and carboplatin can cause nephrotoxicity. The coadministration of these drugs may increase the risk of developing nephrotoxicity, even in patients who have normal renal function. Monitor patients for changes in renal function if these drugs are coadministered.
Colistin: (Major) Both colistimethate sodium and carboplatin can cause nephrotoxicity. The coadministration of these drugs may increase the risk of developing nephrotoxicity, even in patients who have normal renal function. Monitor patients for changes in renal function if these drugs are coadministered.
Darunavir; Cobicistat; Emtricitabine; Tenofovir alafenamide: (Moderate) Monitor for changes in renal function if tenofovir alafenamide is administered in combination with a nephrotoxic agent, such as carboplatin. Tenofovir is primarily excreted via the kidneys by a combination of glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion. Coadministration of tenofovir alafenamide with a drug that reduces renal function or competes for active tubular secretion may increase concentrations of tenofovir and other renally eliminated drugs; thus, increasing the risk of developing renal-related adverse reactions.
Doravirine; Lamivudine; Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate: (Moderate) Tenofovir-containing products should be avoided with concurrent or recent use of a nephrotoxic agent, such as carboplatin. Tenofovir is primarily excreted via the kidneys by a combination of glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion. Coadministration of tenofovir with drugs that are eliminated by active tubular secretion may increase concentrations of tenofovir and/or the co-administered drug. Drugs that decrease renal function may also increase concentrations of tenofovir. Renal impairment, which may include hypophosphatemia, has been reported with the use of tenofovir with a majority of the cases occurring in patients who have underlying systemic or renal disease or who are concurrently taking nephrotoxic agents. Monitor patients receiving concomitant nephrotoxic agents for changes in serum creatinine and phosphorus.
Efavirenz; Emtricitabine; Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: (Moderate) Tenofovir-containing products should be avoided with concurrent or recent use of a nephrotoxic agent, such as carboplatin. Tenofovir is primarily excreted via the kidneys by a combination of glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion. Coadministration of tenofovir with drugs that are eliminated by active tubular secretion may increase concentrations of tenofovir and/or the co-administered drug. Drugs that decrease renal function may also increase concentrations of tenofovir. Renal impairment, which may include hypophosphatemia, has been reported with the use of tenofovir with a majority of the cases occurring in patients who have underlying systemic or renal disease or who are concurrently taking nephrotoxic agents. Monitor patients receiving concomitant nephrotoxic agents for changes in serum creatinine and phosphorus.
Efavirenz; Lamivudine; Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: (Moderate) Tenofovir-containing products should be avoided with concurrent or recent use of a nephrotoxic agent, such as carboplatin. Tenofovir is primarily excreted via the kidneys by a combination of glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion. Coadministration of tenofovir with drugs that are eliminated by active tubular secretion may increase concentrations of tenofovir and/or the co-administered drug. Drugs that decrease renal function may also increase concentrations of tenofovir. Renal impairment, which may include hypophosphatemia, has been reported with the use of tenofovir with a majority of the cases occurring in patients who have underlying systemic or renal disease or who are concurrently taking nephrotoxic agents. Monitor patients receiving concomitant nephrotoxic agents for changes in serum creatinine and phosphorus.
Elvitegravir; Cobicistat; Emtricitabine; Tenofovir Alafenamide: (Moderate) Monitor for changes in renal function if tenofovir alafenamide is administered in combination with a nephrotoxic agent, such as carboplatin. Tenofovir is primarily excreted via the kidneys by a combination of glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion. Coadministration of tenofovir alafenamide with a drug that reduces renal function or competes for active tubular secretion may increase concentrations of tenofovir and other renally eliminated drugs; thus, increasing the risk of developing renal-related adverse reactions.
Elvitegravir; Cobicistat; Emtricitabine; Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: (Moderate) Tenofovir-containing products should be avoided with concurrent or recent use of a nephrotoxic agent, such as carboplatin. Tenofovir is primarily excreted via the kidneys by a combination of glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion. Coadministration of tenofovir with drugs that are eliminated by active tubular secretion may increase concentrations of tenofovir and/or the co-administered drug. Drugs that decrease renal function may also increase concentrations of tenofovir. Renal impairment, which may include hypophosphatemia, has been reported with the use of tenofovir with a majority of the cases occurring in patients who have underlying systemic or renal disease or who are concurrently taking nephrotoxic agents. Monitor patients receiving concomitant nephrotoxic agents for changes in serum creatinine and phosphorus.
Emtricitabine; Rilpivirine; Tenofovir alafenamide: (Moderate) Monitor for changes in renal function if tenofovir alafenamide is administered in combination with a nephrotoxic agent, such as carboplatin. Tenofovir is primarily excreted via the kidneys by a combination of glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion. Coadministration of tenofovir alafenamide with a drug that reduces renal function or competes for active tubular secretion may increase concentrations of tenofovir and other renally eliminated drugs; thus, increasing the risk of developing renal-related adverse reactions.
Emtricitabine; Rilpivirine; Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: (Moderate) Tenofovir-containing products should be avoided with concurrent or recent use of a nephrotoxic agent, such as carboplatin. Tenofovir is primarily excreted via the kidneys by a combination of glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion. Coadministration of tenofovir with drugs that are eliminated by active tubular secretion may increase concentrations of tenofovir and/or the co-administered drug. Drugs that decrease renal function may also increase concentrations of tenofovir. Renal impairment, which may include hypophosphatemia, has been reported with the use of tenofovir with a majority of the cases occurring in patients who have underlying systemic or renal disease or who are concurrently taking nephrotoxic agents. Monitor patients receiving concomitant nephrotoxic agents for changes in serum creatinine and phosphorus.
Emtricitabine; Tenofovir alafenamide: (Moderate) Monitor for changes in renal function if tenofovir alafenamide is administered in combination with a nephrotoxic agent, such as carboplatin. Tenofovir is primarily excreted via the kidneys by a combination of glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion. Coadministration of tenofovir alafenamide with a drug that reduces renal function or competes for active tubular secretion may increase concentrations of tenofovir and other renally eliminated drugs; thus, increasing the risk of developing renal-related adverse reactions.
Emtricitabine; Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: (Moderate) Tenofovir-containing products should be avoided with concurrent or recent use of a nephrotoxic agent, such as carboplatin. Tenofovir is primarily excreted via the kidneys by a combination of glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion. Coadministration of tenofovir with drugs that are eliminated by active tubular secretion may increase concentrations of tenofovir and/or the co-administered drug. Drugs that decrease renal function may also increase concentrations of tenofovir. Renal impairment, which may include hypophosphatemia, has been reported with the use of tenofovir with a majority of the cases occurring in patients who have underlying systemic or renal disease or who are concurrently taking nephrotoxic agents. Monitor patients receiving concomitant nephrotoxic agents for changes in serum creatinine and phosphorus.
Ethotoin: (Major) Patients receiving antineoplastic agents concurrently with hydantoins may be at risk for toxicity or loss of clinical efficacy and seizures; anticonvulsant therapy should be monitored closely during and after administration of antineoplastic agents. Concurrent therapy with phenytoin and carboplatin has been associated with subtherapeutic phenytoin serum concentrations and seizure activity. Phenytoin dosage increases of 20 to 100% have been required in some patients, depending on the chemotherapy administered.
Fosphenytoin: (Major) Patients receiving antineoplastic agents concurrently with hydantoins may be at risk for toxicity or loss of clinical efficacy and seizures; anticonvulsant therapy should be monitored closely during and after administration of antineoplastic agents. Concurrent therapy with phenytoin and carboplatin has been associated with subtherapeutic phenytoin serum concentrations and seizure activity. Phenytoin dosage increases of 20 to 100% have been required in some patients, depending on the chemotherapy administered.
Gentamicin: (Moderate) Patients previously or currently treated with other potentially nephrotoxic agents, such as systemic aminoglycosides, can have a greater risk of developing carboplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. These patients may benefit from hydration prior to carboplatin therapy to lessen the incidence of nephrotoxicity. Monitor renal function closely.
Hydantoins: (Major) Patients receiving antineoplastic agents concurrently with hydantoins may be at risk for toxicity or loss of clinical efficacy and seizures; anticonvulsant therapy should be monitored closely during and after administration of antineoplastic agents. Concurrent therapy with phenytoin and carboplatin has been associated with subtherapeutic phenytoin serum concentrations and seizure activity. Phenytoin dosage increases of 20 to 100% have been required in some patients, depending on the chemotherapy administered.
Lamivudine; Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: (Moderate) Tenofovir-containing products should be avoided with concurrent or recent use of a nephrotoxic agent, such as carboplatin. Tenofovir is primarily excreted via the kidneys by a combination of glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion. Coadministration of tenofovir with drugs that are eliminated by active tubular secretion may increase concentrations of tenofovir and/or the co-administered drug. Drugs that decrease renal function may also increase concentrations of tenofovir. Renal impairment, which may include hypophosphatemia, has been reported with the use of tenofovir with a majority of the cases occurring in patients who have underlying systemic or renal disease or who are concurrently taking nephrotoxic agents. Monitor patients receiving concomitant nephrotoxic agents for changes in serum creatinine and phosphorus.
Mycophenolate: (Contraindicated) Concurrent use of carboplatin with other agents that cause bone marrow or immune suppression such as other antineoplastic agents or immunosuppressives may result in additive effects.
Paclitaxel: (Minor) In vitro studies have shown an increase in cytotoxicity with either the simultaneous or sequential administration of paclitaxel and carboplatin. It appears that paclitaxel followed by carboplatin is more cytotoxic. The pharmacokinetics of either agent is not affected by this sequence of administration.
Paromomycin: (Moderate) Patients previously or currently treated with other potentially nephrotoxic agents, such as systemic aminoglycosides, can have a greater risk of developing carboplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. These patients may benefit from hydration prior to carboplatin therapy to lessen the incidence of nephrotoxicity. Monitor renal function closely.
Phenytoin: (Major) Patients receiving antineoplastic agents concurrently with hydantoins may be at risk for toxicity or loss of clinical efficacy and seizures; anticonvulsant therapy should be monitored closely during and after administration of antineoplastic agents. Concurrent therapy with phenytoin and carboplatin has been associated with subtherapeutic phenytoin serum concentrations and seizure activity. Phenytoin dosage increases of 20 to 100% have been required in some patients, depending on the chemotherapy administered.
Plazomicin: (Moderate) Patients previously or currently treated with other potentially nephrotoxic agents, such as systemic aminoglycosides, can have a greater risk of developing carboplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. These patients may benefit from hydration prior to carboplatin therapy to lessen the incidence of nephrotoxicity. Monitor renal function closely.
Polymyxin B: (Major) Patients previously or currently treated with other potentially nephrotoxic agents, such as systemic polymyxins like Polymyxin B injection, can have a greater risk of developing carboplatin-induced nephrooxicity. These patients may benefit from hydration prior to carboplatin therapy to lessen the incidence of nephrotoxicity. Monitor renal function closely.
SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) vaccines: (Moderate) Patients receiving immunosuppressant medications may have a diminished response to the SARS-CoV-2 virus vaccine. When feasible, administer indicated vaccines prior to initiating immunosuppressant medications. Counsel patients receiving immunosuppressant medications about the possibility of a diminished vaccine response and to continue to follow precautions to avoid exposure to SARS-CoV-2 virus after receiving the vaccine.
Streptomycin: (Moderate) Patients previously or currently treated with other potentially nephrotoxic agents, such as systemic aminoglycosides, can have a greater risk of developing carboplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. These patients may benefit from hydration prior to carboplatin therapy to lessen the incidence of nephrotoxicity. Monitor renal function closely.
Tacrolimus: (Moderate) Concurrent use of carboplatin with other agents that cause bone marrow or immune suppression such as other antineoplastic agents or immunosuppressives may result in additive effects.
Tenofovir Alafenamide: (Moderate) Monitor for changes in renal function if tenofovir alafenamide is administered in combination with a nephrotoxic agent, such as carboplatin. Tenofovir is primarily excreted via the kidneys by a combination of glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion. Coadministration of tenofovir alafenamide with a drug that reduces renal function or competes for active tubular secretion may increase concentrations of tenofovir and other renally eliminated drugs; thus, increasing the risk of developing renal-related adverse reactions.
Tenofovir Alafenamide: (Moderate) Monitor for changes in renal function if tenofovir alafenamide is administered in combination with a nephrotoxic agent, such as carboplatin. Tenofovir is primarily excreted via the kidneys by a combination of glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion. Coadministration of tenofovir alafenamide with a drug that reduces renal function or competes for active tubular secretion may increase concentrations of tenofovir and other renally eliminated drugs; thus, increasing the risk of developing renal-related adverse reactions.
Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: (Moderate) Tenofovir-containing products should be avoided with concurrent or recent use of a nephrotoxic agent, such as carboplatin. Tenofovir is primarily excreted via the kidneys by a combination of glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion. Coadministration of tenofovir with drugs that are eliminated by active tubular secretion may increase concentrations of tenofovir and/or the co-administered drug. Drugs that decrease renal function may also increase concentrations of tenofovir. Renal impairment, which may include hypophosphatemia, has been reported with the use of tenofovir with a majority of the cases occurring in patients who have underlying systemic or renal disease or who are concurrently taking nephrotoxic agents. Monitor patients receiving concomitant nephrotoxic agents for changes in serum creatinine and phosphorus.
Tobramycin: (Moderate) Patients previously or currently treated with other potentially nephrotoxic agents, such as systemic aminoglycosides, can have a greater risk of developing carboplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. These patients may benefit from hydration prior to carboplatin therapy to lessen the incidence of nephrotoxicity. Monitor renal function closely.
Tuberculin Purified Protein Derivative, PPD: (Moderate) Immunosuppressives may decrease the immunological response to tuberculin purified protein derivative, PPD. This suppressed reactivity can persist for up to 6 weeks after treatment discontinuation. Consider deferring the skin test until completion of the immunosuppressive therapy.
Voclosporin: (Moderate) Concomitant use of voclosporin and carboplatin may result in additive nephrotoxicity. Monitor for renal toxicity if concomitant use is required.

How Supplied

Carboplatin/Paraplatin Intravenous Inj Sol: 1mL, 10mg

Maximum Dosage

The suggested maximum tolerated dose (MTD) for carboplatin is dependent on performance status, other chemotherapy agents or radiation given in combination, and disease state. The dosing of carboplatin may vary from protocol to protocol. If questions arise, clinicians should consult the appropriate references to verify the dose.

Adults

Maximum dosage information is not available. For doses calculated using the Calvert formula with an estimated GFR, it is recommended to use a maximum GFR = 125 mL/min in the calculation.

Geriatric

Maximum dosage information is not available. For doses calculated using the Calvert formula with an estimated GFR, it is recommended to use a maximum GFR = 125 mL/min in the calculation.

Adolescents

Safety and efficacy have not been established. Maximum dosage information is not available. For doses calculated using the Calvert formula with an estimated GFR, it is recommended to use a maximum GFR = 125 mL/min in the calculation.

Children

Safety and efficacy have not been established. Maximum dosage information is not available. For doses calculated using the Calvert formula with an estimated GFR, it is recommended to use a maximum GFR = 125 mL/min in the calculation.

Infants

Safety and efficacy have not been established. Maximum dosage information is not available. For doses calculated using the Calvert formula with an estimated GFR, it is recommended to use a maximum GFR = 125 mL/min in the calculation.

Neonates

Safety and efficacy have not been established. Maximum dosage information is not available. For doses calculated using the Calvert formula with an estimated GFR, it is recommended to use a maximum GFR = 125 mL/min in the calculation.

Mechanism Of Action

Carboplatin cytotoxic activity is similar to cisplatin as it binds with DNA to form intrastrand crosslinks and adducts that cause changes in the conformation of the DNA and affect DNA replication. Carboplatin readily crosses the cell membrane. Once inside the cell, the ring structure of carboplatin is hydroxylated by water to form the active moiety. This reaction occurs more slowly than the activation of cisplatin. Therefore, 4—6 times the amount of carboplatin is required to produce the same cytotoxic effects as cisplatin. Once in the active form, carboplatin functions similarly to cisplatin and binds with DNA, RNA, or other macromolecules at two sites to form interstrand and intrastrand links. Carboplatin forms irreversible covalent bonds which inhibit DNA replication, RNA transcription, and protein synthesis. Intrastrand crosslinks at the N7 position of guanine are the predominant binding sites. The maximal DNA crosslinks occur 18 hours after exposure to carboplatin compared to 6—12 hours for cisplatin. Carboplatin crosslinks have a slower removal rate than do cisplatin-induced crosslinks. This slower rate of onset and removal of carboplatin crosslinks is thought to be due to a slow rate of monofunctional adduct formation and/or a slower rate of conversion of monoadducts to crosslinks. While considered cell cycle non-specific, carboplatin cytotoxicity is increased with exposure during the S-phase and with increased infusion rates (24 hours versus 1 hour). Carboplatin causes cell cycle arrest in the G2-phase and then induces programmed cell death or apoptosis.

Pharmacokinetics

Carboplatin is primarily administered by IV infusion. The pharmacokinetics of carboplatin and cisplatin differ greatly. Very little protein binding occurs. Carboplatin distributes well into ascites and pleural fluid. CSF concentrations are approximately 30% of plasma concentrations. Carboplatin is not metabolized but undergoes spontaneous hydrolysis to form the active compound. The excretion of carboplatin is biphasic with half-lives of 90 and 180 minutes Carboplatin is excreted primarily by the kidneys via tubular filtration and secretion. Sixty-five percent of a dose can be recovered in the urine in the first 24 hours.
 
The exposure to carboplatin or AUC is associated with myelosuppressive and cytotoxic effects. In general, carboplatin AUC of 4—7 is associated with acceptable myelosuppressive effects and efficacy. A carboplatin AUC of > 7 is associated with an increased incidence of severe myelosuppression with no added efficacy. Carboplatin bolus doses of 400—600 mg/m2 are associated with an AUC of 6—8 mg/mL x min in previously untreated patients with normal creatinine clearance. Several equations have been developed to individualize carboplatin dosing. The Calvert equation is the simplest equation and was approved by the FDA in 1995 for dosing of carboplatin. In the determination of this equation, creatinine clearance was determined using Cr-EDTA, which is thought to more accurately reflect glomerular filtration rate in patients with altered renal function than does a measured or a calculated creatinine clearance. Currently, Cr-EDTA is not available in the United States and creatinine clearance is determined using measured or calculated methods, which may not be as accurate. The Egorin equations use creatinine clearance and a relationship with platelet nadir to determine the carboplatin dosage. These equations also differentiate between previously treated and untreated patients to take into account the cumulative bone marrow toxicity of carboplatin. The dosing of carboplatin in many disease states is now almost entirely based upon AUC and not body surface area.

Intravenous Route

An IV dose of carboplatin distributes widely throughout the body tissues, and distribution is equal to the total body water.

Pregnancy And Lactation
Pregnancy

Carboplatin is classified as FDA pregnancy risk category D. Carboplatin is embryotoxic and teratogenic in animal models. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. If this drug is used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus. Females of childbearing potential should be advised to avoid becoming pregnant during treatment with carboplatin.

It is not known if carboplatin is excreted in breast milk. Women should stop breast-feeding while receiving carboplatin due to the potential harm to the infant.