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.
Receive QUOTES from Suppliers for FREE