Which medication is associated with increased risk of nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity?

Cisplatin is a platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent that is well-documented for its potential to cause nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity. Nephrotoxicity refers to the drug's ability to cause damage to the kidneys, which is often a dose-dependent effect. Cisplatin can lead to acute kidney injury by causing tubular damage or affecting glomerular filtration rate.

Ototoxicity, on the other hand, involves damage to the auditory system, which can result in hearing loss or tinnitus. This side effect is particularly concerning because it may be permanent in some patients, making monitoring essential during treatment.

While other chemotherapy agents, like doxorubicin and carboplatin, have their own side effects, they are not primarily associated with significant risks of both nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity to the extent that cisplatin is. Vincristine is typically linked to neuropathy rather than these specific renal or auditory toxicities. Therefore, cisplatin stands out as the drug that carries an increased risk for both of these complications.