Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: DOCETAXEL - INJECTION (doh-seh-TAX-ell)
BRAND NAME(S): Taxotere
Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
WARNING: Docetaxel has caused severe allergic reactions and swelling (fluid retention/edema) even with the use of preventative medications. This drug must not be used in patients who previously had an allergic reaction to it or other medications containing polysorbate 80. There is an increase risk of serious reactions (possibly fatal) in patients using docetaxel who have liver problems, who are getting higher doses, and in patients with non small cell lung cancer who have received certain other chemotherapy drugs known as "platinums". If you have a low white blood cell count or liver problems, notify your doctor before using docetaxel. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience swelling, dizziness or fainting, difficulty breathing, irregular heart beat, severe swelling of the abdomen, skin rash, easy bleeding or bruising, sores in the mouth or throat, or symptoms of infection, such as fever and sore throat. Your doctor will closely monitor you and your blood counts and liver tests while you are receiving docetaxel.
USES: This medication is used to treat certain types of cancer (e.g., breast, lung, and prostate cancer). Docetaxel is a member of a family of drugs called taxanes. This drug works by slowing cell growth.
HOW TO USE: This medication is given by vein (intravenously-IV), generally over 1 hour every 3 weeks as directed by your doctor. The dosage and frequency is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Your doctor may prescribe pre-medications (e.g., corticosteroids such as dexamethasone) to prevent side effects like swelling (fluid retention/edema) and allergic reactions. These are generally started 1 day before treatment and continued for a total of 3 days. Carefully follow your doctors orders to prepare for your treatment. Follow all instructions for proper mixing and dilution with correct IV fluids. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. The final solution should be mixed well by gentle rotation of the IV bag, but never shaken. Read the Patient Information Leaflet available from your pharmacist. Consult your doctor, nurse or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- Breast Cancer - Get the facts on breast cancer symptoms, signs, stages, types, research, risk factors, diagnosis, prevention information and treatment options: mastectomy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy.
- Drugs: What You Should Know About Your Drugs - Find out what you should know about your drugs such as side effects, warnings and precautions, storage information, and if a generic version is as good as the brand name.
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index
Interactive Slideshows