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Carboplatin

Prescription
Platinum-Based Chemotherapy
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Interactions
2 documented
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

Alkylating-like platinum complex that forms intrastrand and interstrand DNA crosslinks, preventing DNA replication and transcription. Less nephrotoxic than cisplatin but more myelosuppressive. Safe for use in cats.

At a glance

Class
Platinum-Based Chemotherapy
Schedule
Prescription (Chemotherapy)
Storage
Store at room temperature; protect from light; do not refrigerate (precipitates); do not use aluminum needles

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for osteosarcoma, transitional cell carcinoma, nasal tumors, and carcinomas
Dose
300 mg/m²
Route
PO
Frequency
q3–4 weeks
🐈

Cat

Safe in cats — unlike cisplatin
Dose
200–240 mg/m²
Route
IV
Frequency
q3–4 weeks

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength
—

Storage

Store at room temperature; protect from light; do not refrigerate (precipitates); do not use aluminum needles

Safety

Monitoring parameters

CBC at nadir before each cycleRenal function (creatinine, BUN, urinalysis)Serum electrolytes

Interactions

Major — 1

Gentamicin (Systemic)
major
Both nephrotoxic: carboplatin (less than cisplatin but still significant at cumulative doses) + gentamicin (proximal tubular). Additive renal injury risk.
Management: Avoid concurrent use. If both needed, allow renal recovery between agents. Monitor BUN/creatinine closely.

Moderate — 1

Meloxicam
moderate
NSAID prostaglandin inhibition reduces renal blood flow, potentially worsening carboplatin renal effects.
Management: Use cautiously. Ensure adequate hydration. Monitor renal function.

Brands

Other markets

Paraplatin
Carboplat

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Carboplatin?
Carboplatin is a platinum-based chemotherapy used in pets. Alkylating-like platinum complex that forms intrastrand and interstrand DNA crosslinks, preventing DNA replication and transcription. Less nephrotoxic than cisplatin but more myelosuppressive. Safe for use in cats.
›What is Carboplatin used for in pets?
Carboplatin is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for osteosarcoma, transitional cell carcinoma, nasal tumors, and carcinomas; Safe in cats — unlike cisplatin.
›What is the Carboplatin dose for dogs?
For dogs, Carboplatin is typically dosed as follows — Used for osteosarcoma, transitional cell carcinoma, nasal tumors, and carcinomas: 300 mg/m² PO q3–4 weeks. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Carboplatin dose for cats?
For cats, Carboplatin is typically dosed as follows — Safe in cats — unlike cisplatin: 200–240 mg/m² IV q3–4 weeks. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Carboplatin need a prescription?
Yes. Carboplatin is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Related medicines

Other medicines in the same class (Platinum-Based Chemotherapy).

Cisplatin
Rx
Alkylating-like agent that crosslinks DNA strands by forming platinum-DNA adducts, preventing DNA replication and transcription, leading to apoptosis. Cell-cycle non-specific.
dogcat