Paclitaxel
Written By Dr. Arpit Bhatnagar
Reviewed By Dr. Shilpa GarchaLast updated 06 Mar 2020 | 07:08 AM (UTC)
Paclitaxel Uses
Paclitaxel is used in the treatment of breast cancer and non-small cell lung cancer.
How Paclitaxel works
Paclitaxel 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 Paclitaxel
Nauseaasdfasd, Vomitingsadf, Weakness, Rash, Low blood platelets, Upper respiratory tract infection, Urinary tract infection, Bleeding, Anemia (low number of red blood cells), Decreased blood pressure, Flushing (sense of warmth in the face, ears, neck and trunk), Peripheral neuropathy (tingling and numbness of feet and hand), Hair loss, Diarrhea, Decreased white blood cell count (neutrophils)
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Read Our Editorial PolicyMedicine brands for Paclitaxel
Expert advice for Paclitaxel
- Paclitaxel is an anti-cancer medication used for the treatment of breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, and non-small cell lung cancer.
- It is given as an intravenous (IV) injection into your vein, usually over 1 hour and every three weeks.
- Do not take Paclitaxel 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.
- Inform your doctor if you notice unexplained bruising or bleeding, sore throat, mouth ulcers, high temperature (fever) or other signs of infection.
- Talk to your doctor if you have sudden weight gain or if you have swelling in your arms and legs that doesn't go away.
Frequently asked questions for Paclitaxel
Yes, Paclitaxel is generic/ taxane/ FDA approved/ cytotoxic
Paclitaxel is usually a vesicant (irritant)
Yes, Paclitaxel is light sensitive/ hydrophobic/ cardiotoxic
Yes, Paclitaxel may cause hair loss as a side effect. Please inform your doctor about any side effect while you are on Paclitaxel therapy
Paclitaxel is derived from bark of the Pacific yew, Taxus brevifolia.