Do not use this medication without your doctor's consent if you are
pregnant. It could cause harm to the unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control, and tell
your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.
Before being treated with docetaxel, tell your doctor if you have ever been treated
with cisplatin (Platinol), or if you have liver disease, congestive heart failure, fluid retention,
swelling problems, or if you have ever had an allergic reaction to docetaxel.
Docetaxel can be harmful if it gets on your skin during an IV infusion. If this happens,
wash the skin thoroughly with soap and warm water.
Some people receiving a docetaxel injection have had a reaction to the infusion (when the
medicine is injected into the vein). Tell your caregiver right away if you feel dizzy, light-headed,
warm, or itchy, or if you have chest tightness or trouble breathing during the injection.
Docetaxel can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it
easier for you to get sick from being around others who are ill. To be sure your blood cells do
not get too low, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your liver function may
also need to be tested. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.
Avoid contact with people who have colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses. Contact
your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection, especially fever.
There are many other drugs that can interact with docetaxel. Tell your doctor about all the
prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal
products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without
telling your doctor.
What is docetaxel?
Docetaxel is a cancer medicine that slows the growth and spread of cancer cells in the
body.
Docetaxel is used to treat breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, stomach cancer, and
head/neck cancer.
Docetaxel may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using docetaxel?
Before being treated with docetaxel, tell your doctor if you have ever been treated
with cisplatin (Platinol), or if you have:
-
liver disease;
-
congestive heart failure;
-
fluid retention or swelling problems; or
-
if you have ever had an allergic reaction to docetaxel.
If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment
or special tests to safely receive docetaxel.
FDA pregnancy category D. This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not use docetaxel without telling your doctor if you are pregnant. It could
harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant
during treatment.
It is not known whether docetaxel passes into breast milk or if it could harm a
nursing baby. Do not receive docetaxel without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a
baby.
Adults older than 65 may be more sensitive to the side effects of docetaxel.
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