Oxaliplatin

Do not use Oxaliplatin if you are allergic to any of its components, if you are breastfeeding, have a low blood cell count, have severe kidney problems, tingling and numbness in the fingers/toes, and have difficulty performing fragile tasks, such as buttoning clothes. Inform the doctor if you ever suffered an allergic reaction to platinum-containing medicines, have mild/moderate kidney problems, liver problems or abnormal liver function tests during therapy, or heart disorders like prolongation of the QT interval (abnormal electrical signal), an irregular heartbeat, or a family history of heart problems. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction (rash, itching, hives, reddening of the skin, hoarseness, difficulty breathing or swallowing, feeling as if your throat is closing, dizziness, swelling of the lips and tongue, lightheadedness, or fainting), unpleasant sensation in the throat, rhabdomyolysis (muscle pain and swelling), nerve problems (sensitivity to cold temperature or cold objects, pain, tingling or burning sensation), Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (headache, confusion, seizures, vision problems), myelosuppression (chills or shivering, burning or pain on urination, pain on swallowing, sore throat, cough with mucus, persistent diarrhoea), lung problems (shortness of breath, wheezing, cough), or bleeding problems (vomit that looks like coffee grounds or bloody vomit, pink or brown urine, weakness, dizziness, changes in speech, confusion, unexplained bleeding or dark-coloured/tarry stools).

Drug-Drug Interactions: Inform the doctor if you are taking medicines that prolong QT interval (antiarrhythmic agents), nephrotoxic products, or anti-coagulants.

Drug-Food Interactions: No interactions found.

Drug-Disease Interactions: Inform the doctor if you have an infection, lung, liver or kidney problems, bleeding problems, heart problems (long QT syndrome, irregular/slow heartbeat), or changes in electrolyte levels.

• Eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly to maintain proper weight.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.
• Include vegetables and fruits in your diet.
• Avoid fast food, fried food, processed meats, refined carbs and added sugar.
• Get optimal sleep; rest well.
• Drink enough water and eat fibre-rich foods, vegetables and fruits.

• Women must use reliable contraception during treatment and for nine months after receiving the last dose.
• Male patients are advised not to father a child during treatment and for six months after the last dose. Use effective contraception during this time.
• If you are due to undergo any surgery, including dental surgery, inform the doctor/dentist that you are on treatment with Oxaliplatin.
• Avoid eating or drinking anything that is colder than room temperature for five days after receiving each dose of Oxaliplatin. To reduce side effects caused by cold temperature-cover yourself with a blanket while getting treatment with Oxaliplatin, wear warm clothing in cold weather at all times, cover your mouth and nose with a scarf and wear gloves whilst touching cold objects. Drink fluid at room/warm temperature and always drink through a straw. Avoid using ice and AC, touching cold metals, and breathing deeply when exposed to cold air.