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Generic Name: docetaxel

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A mitotic inhibitor - treats Head and Neck Cancer, Breast Cancer, Gastric Cancer, Prostate Cancer, a... more

FDA Alerts

Treatment-related Mortality

Incidence of treatment-related mortality increased in patients with abnormal hepatic function, patients receiving higher doses, and patients with non-small cell lung carcinoma previously treated with platinum-based chemotherapy who received docetaxel monotherapy at a dose of 100 mg/m². Approximately half of deaths reported in breast cancer patients occurred during the first cycle; most deaths were due to sepsis.

Hepatic Impairment

Docetaxel should not be administered to patients with serum total bilirubin >ULN, or patients with serum AST and/or ALT >1.5 times ULN concurrent with alkaline phosphatase >2.5 times ULN. These patients are at increased risk for grade 4 neutropenia, febrile neutropenia, infections, severe thrombocytopenia, severe stomatitis, severe skin toxicity, and toxic death. Increased risk for grade 4 febrile neutropenia, but not toxic death, in patients with isolated elevations of AST or ALT >1.5 times ULN.
Obtain and review bilirubin, AST, ALT, and alkaline phosphatase values prior to each cycle.

Hematologic Monitoring

Docetaxel should not be administered to patients with neutrophil counts <1500/mm³.
Monitor blood cell counts frequently.

Hypersensitivity

Severe hypersensitivity reactions (hypotension and/or bronchospasm, generalized rash/erythema) reported in patients who received the recommended 3-day dexamethasone premedication. Hypersensitivity reactions requiring discontinuance reported in patients who did not receive dexamethasone premedication. Hypersensitivity reactions resolved following discontinuance of the infusion and appropriate treatment.
Do not administer to patients with a history of severe hypersensitivity reactions to docetaxel or polysorbate 80.

Fluid Retention

Severe fluid retention (poorly tolerated peripheral edema, generalized edema, pleural effusion requiring urgent drainage, dyspnea at rest, cardiac tamponade, pronounced abdominal distention, ascites) reported in patients despite receiving the 3-day dexamethasone premedication.

Experience of Supervising Clinician

Administer only under the supervision of qualified clinicians experienced in the use of cytotoxic therapy. Adequate diagnostic and treatment facilities should be readily available to manage complications.

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docetaxel

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(doe se TAX el)

What other drugs will affect docetaxel?

Do not receive "live" vaccines during treatment with docetaxel. Administration of a live vaccine may be dangerous during treatment with docetaxel.

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.

Where can I get more information?

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about docetaxel.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

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Related Learning
Centers

·As a Drug

Breast Cancer

Lung Cancer

Metastatic Lung Cancer

Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

Oral Cancer

Prostate Cancer

Small Cell Carcinoma of Lung

Stomach Cancer

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