Docetaxel
Information about Docetaxel
Docetaxel uses
Docetaxel is used in the treatment of breast cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, prostate cancer and cancer of head and neck.
How docetaxel works
Docetaxel is an anticancer medication. It works by interfering with the microtubule structures which help the cancer cells to divide and multiply. This slows the growth of cancer cells and eventually kills them.
Common side effects of docetaxel
Nausea, Vomiting, Anemia (low number of red blood cells), Hair loss, Diarrhea, Infection, Nail disorder, Weakness, Febrile neutropenia, Hypersensitivity, Stomatitis (Inflammation of the mouth), Muscle pain, Fever, Decreased white blood cell count (neutrophils), Decreased white blood cell count (lymphocytes), Cutaneous lupus erythematosus, Hypoglycemia (low blood glucose level), Joint pain, Septic death, Non-septic death, Fluid retention, Infusion site reaction, Neurosensory effects, Enterocolitis, Neutropenic colitis, Hepatitis (viral infection of liver), Ototoxicity
Available Medicine for Docetaxel
Expert advice for Docetaxel
- Docetaxel is an anti-cancer medication used for the treatment of breast cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, prostate cancer and cancers of head and neck.
- It is given as an intravenous (IV) injection into your vein, usually over 1 hour and every three weeks.
- Do not take Docetaxel if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Use reliable methods of contraception to prevent pregnancy while taking this medicine.
- Your doctor may get regular blood tests done to monitor your blood cells and liver function during treatment with this medicine.
- It may cause side effects such as swelling of hands, lips, and weight gain. To reduce these side effects your doctor may suggest some medication along with this medicine called Corticosteroids.
- Inform your doctor if you notice unexplained bruising or bleeding, sore throat, mouth ulcers, high temperature (fever) or other signs of infection.
Frequently asked questions for Docetaxel
Docetaxel
Q. Does Docetaxel cause weight gain?
Yes, Docetaxel may cause weight gain. It may occur due to fluid retention which may initially make your feet swell and then gradually it will spread to the whole body. Call your doctor immediately if you notice swelling of feet.
Q. How long do I have to take Docetaxel?
You should continue to take Docetaxel as long as your doctor advises you. The duration of treatment varies with the type of cancer you have and other factors like your response to treatment. You should usually receive your infusion once every 3 weeks.
Q. Can I drink alcohol while on Docetaxel?
Docetaxel injection contains alcohol because of which you may experience confusion, stumbling, becoming very sleepy, or feeling like you are drunk. This may impair your ability to drive or use machinery right after receiving it. Hence, you should avoid alcohol during Docetaxel therapy, as it may affect you adversely.