Chemo Drugs

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Taxotere (Docetaxel)

What Does It Look Like?

Clear yellow to brownish yellow liquid

How Is It Given?

Intravenous (vein)

Why Am I Taking It?

Taxotere is an anti-cancer drug that stops cells from growing or reproducing. Taxotere is used mainly to treat breast cancer after failing treatment with other chemotherapy drugs. It has also been used to treat non-small cell lung cancer.

What Side Effects May Occur?

You may experience some, all, or none of those listed. Most side effects do not last long. Tell the doctor or nurse about any that you notice. The information here does not include all possible side effects; others may occur. Please report any problems to your doctor.

Low Blood Cell Count

• Your WBC (white blood cell) count may temporarily drop, increasing your risk of infection. Blood tests will be done to monitor this.
• Call your doctor if you notice any signs of infection or bleeding.
• Avoid situations where you might be exposed to people with infections.

Allergic Reactions

• This is infrequent but report any warm sensations, chest tightness or itching during or shortly after your treatment to your doctor or nurse immediately.

Hair Loss

• Loss of hair (including the hair on your head, underarm hair, pubic hair, eyebrows and eyelashes) occurs in most patients taking Taxotere.
• Hair grows back once treatment is stopped.

Fluid Retention

• Taxotere may interfere with how your body eliminates extra fluids and may cause swelling of hands or feet or a weight gain of several pounds. In the worst cases, the fluid may accumulate in body cavities such as around your lungs, heart or in your abdomen.
• Tell your doctor or nurse if you notice any swelling, shortness of breath or weight gain.
• A drug called dexamethasone (Decadron) will be prescribed for you to take before and after Taxotere to help with fluid retention and allergic reactions. It is important that you take your dexamethasone exactly as your doctor or nurse advises you.

Fatigue and Muscle Discomfort

• Tiredness is common.
• Muscle and joint pain happens about 20% of the time, but it is rarely severe.
• Tell your doctor or nurse if this happens as they may suggest ways to make you more comfortable.

Rash

• Patients on Taxotere may get a red, blotchy rash on the body. If it happens, it is usually within a week after treatment and usually disappears after a week or two.
• Although the rash is rarely serious, let your doctor or nurse know.

Numbness

• Some patients experience a mild numbness, tingling or burning in their hands and feet.

Nail Changes

• The color of your nails may change.
• Occasionally, the nails become soft and tender, and rarely, the nails may fall off.
• Keep your nails trimmed.

Nausea/Vomiting/Diarrhea

• May occur but is generally not severe.

Special Notes

• Changes in your menstrual cycle or sperm counts may occur. Discuss birth control measures with your doctor as it is not advisable to conceive or to father children while taking this drug.