Docetaxel is an antineoplastic agent belonging to the taxoid family. It is made from the needles of certain kinds of yew trees. Docetaxel interferes with the growth of rapidly dividing cells, like cancer cells, and later on causes these cells to die. Docetaxel may be used alone or with other chemotherapy agents or radiation therapy.

Appearance

Docetaxel Injection Concentrate is a clear yellow to brownish-yellow viscous solution

Uses

It is used as a chemotherapy agent to treat many types of cancer such as:

Breast Cancer
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Prostate Cancer
Gastric Adenocarcinoma
Head and Neck Cancer

How to use?

Docetaxel injection concentrate needs dilution prior to use. A sterile, non-pyrogenic, single-dose diluent is used for that purpose. This medication is for infusion into a vein (intravenously-IV), usually over 1 hour every 3 weeks depending upon your laboratory results or as directed by your doctor. The dosage and frequency is depends on your response to therapy or your medical condition. To prevent side effects like swelling and allergic reactions, your physician may prescribe pre-medications (dexamethasone ) which are generally started 1 day before treatment and used for 3-4 days. Proper mixing and dilution with correct IV fluids should be done by medical experts. The final solution should be mixed well by gentle rotation of the IV bag, but should not be shaken.

Safety tips

The patient should have regular blood checks after receiving docetaxel.
If there is an increased chance of an allergic reaction, during the first or second infusion of docetaxel, then take the dexamethasone to decrease the chance of this happening.
Tell your doctor if you begin to have a hard time breathing or develop an itching during your infusion of docetaxel.
Avoid taking aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil®), acetaminophen (Tylenol®), naproxen (Aleve®), or ketoprofen (Orudis® KT) products unless instructed to by your doctor as these may mask a fever.
While receiving docetaxel the patient should be careful brushing and flossing his teeth or using a toothpick because he may get an infection or bleed more easily.
If you are going to have surgery, tell your doctor that you are receiving docetaxel.

Side effects

Severe side effects for which immediate medical attention is required are as follows:

Low blood counts
Fever or chills, sore throat
Bruising, pinpoint red spots on the skin: Signs of decreased platelets
Unusual weakness or tiredness: Signs of decreased red blood cells
Difficulty breathing
Fast or irregular heartbeat
Leg, ankle or arm swelling
Mouth ulcers
Pain, swelling, redness, or irritation at the injection site
Skin rash, itching
Stomach pain, swelling
Numbness or weakness in the hands or feet
Vomiting

Some common side effects for which no medical attention is required are as follows:

Complete hair loss including hair on your head, pubic hair, underarms, eyebrows, and eyelashes
Diarrhea
Flushing
Excessive tearing
Fatigue
Changes in the color of fingernails and loosening of the fingernails
Nausea Muscle and bone pain

Disclaimer: The above information is for general understanding of the visitor. Please consult a registered medical practitioner before taking the aforesaid medicine.