The use of anticancer drugs is beneficial for patients with malignancies but is 
frequently associated with the occurrence of electrolyte disorders, which can be 
hazardous and in many cases fatal. The review presents the electrolyte 
abnormalities that can occur with the use of anticancer drugs and provides the 
related mechanisms. Platinum-containing anticancer drugs induce hypomagnesemia, 
hypokalemia and hypocalcemia. Moreover, platinum-containing drugs are associated 
with hyponatremia, especially when combined with large volumes of hypotonic 
fluids aiming to prevent nephrotoxicity. Alkylating agents have been linked with 
the occurrence of hyponatremia [due to syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic 
hormone secretion (SIADH)] and Fanconi's syndrome (hypophosphatemia, 
aminoaciduria, hypouricemia and/or glucosuria). Vinca alkaloids are associated 
with hyponatremia due to SIADH. Epidermal growth factor receptor monoclonal 
antibody inhibitors induce hypomagnesemia, hypokalemia and hypocalcemia. Other, 
monoclonal antibodies, such as cixutumumab, cause hyponatremia due to SIADH. 
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors are linked to hyponatremia and hypophosphatemia. 
Mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors induce hyponatremia (due to aldosterone 
resistance), hypokalemia and hypophosphatemia. Other drugs such as 
immunomodulators or methotrexate have been also associated with hyponatremia. 
The administration of estrogens at high doses, streptozocin, azacitidine and 
suramin may induce hypophosphatemia. Finally, the drug-related tumor lysis 
syndrome is associated with hyperphosphatemia, hyperkalemia and hypocalcemia. 
The prevention of electrolyte derangements may lead to reduction of adverse 
events during the administration of anticancer drugs.