docetaxel (cont.)
Hair Loss
Loss of hair (including the hair on your head, underarm
hair, pubic hair, eyebrows, and eyelashes), which is known
as alopecia, occurs in most patients taking docetaxel (Taxotere). For some people, this is a very difficult side
effect to experience. However, your hair should grow back
once you stop treatment. Meanwhile, your doctor or nurse
can refer you to a specialty store that carries wigs,
hairpieces, and turbans specifically for patients with
cancer. You can also call the American Cancer Society for
more information (1-800-ACS-2345).
Fatigue and Muscle Discomfort
Many patients receiving docetaxel (Taxotere) for Injection
Concentrate feel tired at some time during their treatment.
Even if you are only slightly tired, make sure you get
enough rest during your treatment. Muscle pain happens
about 20% of the time, but is rarely severe. You may feel
pain in your muscles or joints. Tell your doctor or nurse
if this happens. They may suggest ways to make you more
comfortable.
Rash
Patients on docetaxel (Taxotere) may develop a red, blotchy
rash. This usually occurs on the feet and hands, but may
also appear on the arms, face, or body. If it occurs, the
rash generally appears within a week after docetaxel (Taxotere) treatment and usually disappears after a week or
two.
Numbness
Some patients receiving docetaxel (Taxotere) experience
numbness, tingling, burning, or weakness in their hands and
feet.
Nail Changes
Changes in the color of your fingernails or toenails may
occur while you are taking docetaxel (Taxotere).
Occasionally, nails become soft and tender. In more extreme
but rare cases, nails may fall off. After you have finished
docetaxel (Taxotere) treatment, your nails will generally
grow back. Keeping your nails clean and trimmed while being
treated with docetaxel (Taxotere) may help prevent nail
problems.
Nausea, Vomiting, and Diarrhea
Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may occur but generally are
not severe with Taxotere.
Other Possible Side Effects
The side effects listed here include those that occur most
frequently in patients receiving docetaxel (Taxotere), but
they are not the only ones that may occur. Make sure to
report any symptoms to your doctor or nurse.
As part of your treatment plan, your doctor may
prescribe other medications, including dexamethasone, which
is used to help lessen some of the side effects you may
have during treatment. Dexamethasone may prevent fluid
retention (holding extra water in the body), and may also
lessen any allergic reactions to docetaxel (Taxotere).
Patients generally begin taking dexamethasone 1 day before
their docetaxel (Taxotere) treatment and usually continue
for a total of 3 days. However, you should always follow
your doctor's or nurse's instructions on how to take your
medications and for how many days.
Use of a short course of dexamethasone, a corticosteroid,
can cause side effects, although they are generally mild in
nature. These side effects can include flushing, upset
stomach, and nausea. If you have previously had side
effects while taking corticosteroids, alert your physician
or nurse before receiving treatment with docetaxel (Taxotere).
If you forget to take your dexamethasone as directed, make
sure to tell your doctor or nurse before you receive
your docetaxel (Taxotere) treatment. Call your doctor or
nurse if you have any problems taking your
dexamethasone.
Reference: FDA Prescribing Information
Last Editorial Review: 3/12/2000 4:14:00 PM
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.
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