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Brand Names: Taxotere

Generic Name: docetaxel (Pronunciation: doe se TAX el)

• What is docetaxel (Taxotere)?
• What are the possible side effects of docetaxel (Taxotere)?
• What is the most important information I should know about docetaxel (Taxotere)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using docetaxel (Taxotere)?
• How is docetaxel used (Taxotere)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Taxotere)?
• What happens if I overdose (Taxotere)?
• What should I avoid while using docetaxel (Taxotere)?
• What other drugs will affect docetaxel (Taxotere)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is docetaxel (Taxotere)?

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 are the possible side effects of docetaxel (Taxotere)?

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.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these 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. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about docetaxel (Taxotere)?

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.