Generic
name: Docetaxel-injection
Brand name: Taxotere
Description
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.
