Platinol is a synthetic anticancer agent that belongs to a group of drugs known as alkylating agents. The drug acts by cross-linking the two DNA strands in a manner that is not cell cycle specific. Platinol concentrates in the liver, kidneys, and the large and small intestines, but the drug has a very poor penetration into the blood-brain barrier. Platinol is used primarily for bladder and ovarian tumors as well as small-cell carcinomas of the lung. Side effects include joint pain, ringing in the ears, trouble in hearing, and weakness.