Cisplatin (cisplatin)
Multiple manufacturers (generic) · Platinum-Based Chemotherapy Agent
What is Cisplatin? Cisplatin is a foundational platinum-based chemotherapy agent used in combination regimens for many cancer types. It is one of the most widely used chemotherapy agents in oncology.
About Cisplatin
| Brand Name | Cisplatin |
| Generic / INN | cisplatin |
| Drug Class | Platinum-Based Chemotherapy Agent |
| Manufacturer | Multiple manufacturers (generic) |
| Administration | Intravenous (IV) infusion |
| FDA Approval | 1978 |
| Presentation | Cisplatin is available as 50 mg/50 mL and 100 mg/100 mL solutions (1 mg/mL) from multiple generic manufacturers. |
FDA-Approved Uses for Cisplatin
The following indications are based on FDA approval as of the last review date. Your oncologist will determine appropriate use based on your specific cancer type, stage, biomarker status, and overall treatment plan.
- Metastatic testicular tumors (combination)
- Metastatic ovarian tumors (combination)
- Advanced bladder cancer
- Non-small cell lung cancer (combination with gemcitabine and others)
- Head and neck cancers (combination)
- Cervical cancer (combination)
- Esophageal cancer
- Gastric cancer
- Small cell lung cancer
How Does Cisplatin Work?
Cisplatin is an alkylating agent that forms crosslinks between and within DNA strands by binding to purine bases, particularly guanine. This interferes with DNA replication and transcription, triggering apoptosis in rapidly dividing cancer cells.
Dosage & Administration
Dosing is determined by body surface area (BSA), indication, and combination regimen. Significant IV hydration before and after administration is required to reduce nephrotoxicity.
Dosing for oncology medications is individualized by the treating oncologist or oncology pharmacist. Do not adjust dosing without consulting your healthcare team. The information on this page is educational only and does not replace the official prescribing information or your provider's guidance.
Warnings, Precautions & Side Effects
General Warning
CUMULATIVE AND POTENTIALLY SEVERE renal toxicity (nephrotoxicity) is dose-limiting. Ototoxicity (hearing loss, tinnitus) can be irreversible. Severe nausea and vomiting require aggressive antiemetic prophylaxis. Myelosuppression, neurotoxicity, and anaphylaxis may occur. Cisplatin is a vesicant — extravasation can cause severe tissue damage.
- Nephrotoxicity — may be irreversible without adequate hydration
- Ototoxicity — may be irreversible
- Severe nausea/vomiting
- Myelosuppression
- Anaphylaxis
- Extravasation injury
Common Side Effects
- Severe nausea and vomiting
- Nephrotoxicity
- Ototoxicity
- Neurotoxicity (peripheral neuropathy)
- Myelosuppression
- Alopecia
- Electrolyte imbalances
This is not a complete list. Report any new or worsening symptoms to your oncologist or healthcare provider promptly.
Storage & Handling
Store cisplatin injection at controlled room temperature 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Do not refrigerate (precipitation may occur). Protect from light.
Oncology medications require careful handling. BiologicHealthPlus provides cold-chain specialty delivery with temperature monitoring for medications that require refrigeration. Do not use the medication if the storage chain has been compromised.
Insurance Coverage, Prior Authorization & Patient Assistance
🛡️ Commercial Insurance
Cisplatin is a specialty oncology medication covered by most major commercial insurance plans when medically necessary and prior authorized. Coverage varies by plan, indication, and formulary tier. BiologicHealthPlus verifies benefits at no cost to patients.
✅ Prior Authorization
Prior authorization is required by virtually all insurance plans for Cisplatin. Our team handles the full prior authorization process — submitting clinical documentation, peer-to-peer reviews when needed, and appeals — at no cost to patients or providers.
🏥 Medicare & Medicaid
Medicare coverage for oncology medications depends on route of administration. Intravenous oncology medications are typically covered under Medicare Part B (medical benefit) when administered in a clinical setting. Subcutaneous formulations may be covered under Part B or Part D depending on administration circumstances. Medicaid coverage varies by state.
🆓 Patient Assistance Programs
Manufacturer patient assistance programs may be available for eligible uninsured or underinsured patients. BiologicHealthPlus can assess your eligibility and help with the application process. Contact our team for a confidential eligibility review.
Prior Authorization Guide Patient Assistance Programs Insurance & Savings Medication Costs
Frequently Asked Questions About Cisplatin
Cisplatin is a platinum-based chemotherapy used in combination regimens for testicular cancer, ovarian cancer, bladder cancer, lung cancer, head and neck cancer, cervical cancer, and other solid tumors.
The most serious side effects are nephrotoxicity (kidney damage) and ototoxicity (hearing loss). These can be cumulative and potentially irreversible. Aggressive IV hydration is required to reduce kidney toxicity.
Yes. Cisplatin is available as a generic drug from multiple manufacturers. There is no currently marketed branded version in the United States.
Cisplatin is given as an intravenous infusion, typically with extensive pre- and post-hydration to protect the kidneys. It is always administered in an oncology clinic or infusion center.
Both are platinum-based chemotherapy agents that work similarly. Carboplatin generally has less nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity but more myelosuppression. The choice between them depends on the cancer type, patient kidney function, and combination regimen.
Related Medications & Conditions
Related Medications
Gemcitabine · Carboplatin · Paclitaxel · 5-Fluorouracil
Related Conditions
Testicular cancer · Ovarian cancer · Bladder cancer · Non-small cell lung cancer · Head and neck cancer