Docetaxel
DOCETAXEL – INJECTION (doh-seh-TAX-ell)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Taxotere
WARNING: Docetaxel has caused severe allergic reactions and swelling (fluid retention) even with the use of preventative medication. Docetaxel must not be used in people who previously had an allergic reaction to it or to other medications containing polysorbate 80. There have been more fatalities by people using this medication in higher doses and in people with liver problems. If you have a low white blood cell count or liver problems, notify your doctor before using docetaxel. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop difficulty breathing, swelling, rapid heartbeat, dizziness or faintness, symptoms of an infection (persistent fever, sore throat), easy bruising or bleeding, mouth sores, or skin rash or irritation. Your treatment may need to be adjusted or stopped. Your doctor will closely monitor you while you are using docetaxel. Liver and blood tests should be performed.
USES: This medication is used to treat certain types of cancer (e.g., breast cancer).
HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION: This medication is given by vein (IV), generally over 1 hour, every 3 weeks as directed by your doctor. The dosage depends on your condition and your response to therapy. Do not exceed the maximum recommended dose. Prepare for this treatment as directed. Take all prescribed pre-medication (e.g., corticosteroids) as directed to minimize side effects caused by this medication. Follow all instructions for proper mixing and dilution with correct IV fluids. Follow all cancer chemotherapy safety precautions. Consult your pharmacist. This medication should be checked visually for particles or discoloration before use. If present, do not use the liquid.
SIDE EFFECTS: Pain or redness at the injection site, nausea, or diarrhea may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Report promptly: swelling of the hands or feet; unexplained weight gain, weakness; tingling or numbness of the hands or feet; fatigue, fever, chills, sore throat; unusual bleeding or bruising; sores in the mouth or throat; hair loss; muscle or joint pain; changes in the appearance of the nails. Very unlikely but report promptly: chest pain, severe stomach pain; unusually fast/slow/irregular pulse; severe headache; black or bloody stools; fainting; severe pain or redness of the leg; seizures; changes in amount of urine. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this medication, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, including: allergies (especially to polysorbate 80), liver problems, heart problems (e.g., congestive heart failure), high blood pressure, kidney problems, lung problems (e.g., pulmonary effusions), blood problems (e.g., thrombocytopenia, anemia), recent illness, immune system problems (e.g., neutropenia). This medication can lower the body’s ability to fight an infection. Notify your doctor promptly if you develop any signs of an infection such as:
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all nonprescription and prescription medication you may use, especially:
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
NOTES: Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., blood cell counts and liver function) may be performed to monitor for side effects and response to treatment. Keep all scheduled medical appointments.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, contact your doctor immediately to establish a new dosing schedule.
STORAGE: Store unopened vials in a refrigerator between 36 and 46 degrees F (2 to 8 degrees C) away from light and moisture. After mixing and dilution in correct IV fluids, store in proper bottles or plastic bags (consult your pharmacist for details). Discard any unused liquid, following all cancer chemotherapy safety precautions.
