Oxaliplatin (Patient-Friendly)
Medication Basics
Drug Name
Oxaliplatin (Brand name: Eloxatin®; also available as generic oxaliplatin)
Purpose / Indication
Oxaliplatin is a chemotherapy medicine commonly used to treat colon and rectal cancers. It is often given with other medicines such as fluorouracil and leucovorin as part of a treatment plan chosen by the oncology team.
Dosage & Administration
Dose Schedule
Your dose and schedule depend on your diagnosis, body size, lab results, and treatment plan. It is commonly given in cycles, often every 2 weeks when used with other chemotherapy medicines.
Route
IV (Intravenous)
Timing Considerations
Oxaliplatin is given by IV infusion in an infusion center or clinic. The infusion usually takes about 2 hours, but your schedule may vary based on your regimen and how you tolerate treatment.
Food Relation
Either
Time of Day
Flexible
Special Instructions
Tell your care team right away if you feel itching, rash, trouble breathing, chest tightness, dizziness, throat tightness, or back pain during the infusion. Avoid cold drinks, ice, and cold temperatures for several days after treatment unless your team gives different instructions.
Injection Techniques
This medicine is given by trained healthcare professionals through an IV line. Do not try to administer it at home.
Mechanism of Action
Mechanism
Oxaliplatin works by damaging the DNA inside cancer cells. This makes it harder for cancer cells to grow and divide.