Platinalääkkeiden

Platinalääkkeet, known in English as platinum-based drugs or platinum chemotherapy, are a class of anticancer medications that utilize platinum compounds to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. These drugs are a cornerstone of chemotherapy treatment for a wide range of malignancies, including testicular cancer, ovarian cancer, lung cancer, bladder cancer, and head and neck cancers. The mechanism of action for platinalääkkeet involves the platinum atom forming cross-links within the DNA of cancer cells. This damage to the DNA prevents the cells from replicating and ultimately triggers programmed cell death, or apoptosis.

The most commonly prescribed platinalääkkeet include cisplatin, carboplatin, and oxaliplatin. Cisplatin was one of the first platinum-based drugs developed and remains widely used. Carboplatin is often favored for its potentially less severe side effect profile compared to cisplatin, particularly regarding kidney toxicity. Oxaliplatin is particularly effective against colorectal cancer and is often used in combination regimens.

While highly effective, platinalääkkeet are associated with various side effects. These can include nausea and vomiting, fatigue, kidney damage, nerve damage (neuropathy), hearing loss, and bone marrow suppression leading to decreased blood cell counts. Management of these side effects is a critical aspect of patient care during treatment. Despite their toxicity, platinalääkkeet have significantly improved survival rates and treatment outcomes for many cancer patients. Ongoing research aims to develop novel platinum-based drugs with improved efficacy and reduced side effects, as well as to identify predictive markers for patient response.