Cisplatin is commonly associated with which adverse effects?

• A. Hepatotoxicity only
• B. Ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity, nausea and vomiting
• C. Neuromuscular toxicity
• D. Cardiac toxicity

Answer: (B)

Cisplatin’s toxicity profile centers on injury to the kidneys and inner ear, with strong nausea and vomiting as well. The drug tends to accumulate in renal tubular cells, causing nephrotoxicity that can reduce kidney function and disturb electrolyte balance. It also damages the hair cells in the inner ear, leading to ototoxicity such as hearing loss or tinnitus. At the same time, cisplatin is highly emetogenic, often provoking substantial nausea and vomiting. Because these are the hallmark adverse effects clinicians most commonly associate with cisplatin, this combination of ototoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and nausea/vomiting best fits its known toxicity pattern. Other toxicities like hepatotoxicity, neuromuscular toxicity, or cardiac toxicity are not typical defining risks for this drug.