Oncology Drug Reference Sheet: Oxaliplatin

Oxaliplatin (Eloxatin^®) is a platinum-based drug used since 2002 to treat colorectal cancer. It can cause serious hypersensitivity adverse reactions and has the unique side effect of reversible peripheral sensory neuropathy exacerbated by exposure to cold temperature or objects. It gets its name from its chemical structure, which has an oxalate ligand.