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How is docetaxel used?

Docetaxel is given as an injection through a needle placed into a vein. You will receive this medicine in a clinic or hospital setting. Docetaxel must be given slowly through an IV and it may take up to an hour to complete your dose.

Your doctor may prescribe a steroid medicine for you to take for a few days before your injection. This will help prevent swelling or an allergic reaction to docetaxel. Do not miss any doses of the steroid.

Docetaxel must be given slowly through an IV and it may take up to an hour to complete your dose.

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.

Docetaxel is usually given once every 3 weeks, and you may receive other cancer medicines at the same time. Your doctor will determine a treatment schedule for you based on the type of cancer being treated and other factors.

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. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss a dose of docetaxel or the steroid medicine.

What happens if I overdose?

Overdose symptoms may include fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms, numbness, burning, pain, or tingly feeling, or white patches or sores inside your mouth or on your lips.

What should I avoid while using docetaxel?

Avoid getting a flu shot or vaccine while you are being treated with docetaxel. Vaccines may not work as well or could make you sick while you are using docetaxel.

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.

Avoid allowing this medicine to get on your skin during an IV infusion. If this does happen, wash the skin thoroughly with soap and warm water.

What are the possible side effects of docetaxel?

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.

signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness;

• feeling like you might pass out;

• fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;

• severe diarrhea;

• skin changes or bruising where the IV was placed;

• nausea, stomach pain, low fever, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);

• feeling short of breath, even with mild exertion;

• swelling of your ankles or feet, weight gain;

• a red, blistering, peeling skin rash; or

• numbness, burning, pain, or tingly feeling.

Less serious side effects may include:

• feeling weak or tired;

• white patches or sores inside your mouth or on your lips;

• mild nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or loss of appetite;

• watery eyes;

• changes in menstrual periods;

• temporary hair loss; or

• fingernail or toenail changes.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

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