About docetaxel
Taxane chemotherapy medicine
Used for
- Breast cancer
- Non-small-cell lung cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Stomach, head and neck cancers
Usual adult dose
Usually 60–100 mg/m² by intravenous infusion every three weeks; dose depends on cancer and combination treatment.
Common side effects
- Low blood cell counts and infection risk
- Hair loss
- Nausea, diarrhoea, or mouth sores
- Fluid retention and nerve problems
Important warnings
- Can cause severe allergic reactions; premedication with corticosteroids is often used.
- Blood counts and liver function need monitoring.
- May cause serious infection, bleeding, or fluid retention.
- Avoid during pregnancy; effective contraception is needed during treatment.
Pregnancy
Can harm an unborn baby. Avoid during pregnancy; contraception is required during treatment and for a period afterward.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for at least one week after the last dose.
Interactions
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers can alter docetaxel levels.
- Other medicines that suppress bone marrow may increase infection or bleeding risks.
- Live vaccines may cause infection during chemotherapy.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.