Generic
Docetaxel
14 brands available in the market
At a glance
Docetaxel is an antineoplastic medication used for the treatment of breast cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, prostate cancer, and head and neck cancers.
Description
Docetaxel is an antineoplastic agent which acts by disrupting the microtubular network in cells that is essential for vital mitotic and interphase cellular functions. Docetaxel promotes the assembly of tubulin into stable microtubules while simultaneously inhibiting their disassembly, resulting in inhibition of mitosis.
Indications
- Breast cancer (locally advanced or metastatic)
- Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
- Prostate cancer
- Head and neck cancers
- Gastric adenocarcinoma
Therapeutic class
Cytotoxic Chemotherapy
Pharmacological class
Microtubule Inhibitor (Taxane)
Pharmacology
Docetaxel is an antineoplastic agent which acts by disrupting the microtubular network in cells that is essential for vital mitotic and interphase cellular functions. Docetaxel promotes the assembly of tubulin into stable microtubules while simultaneously inhibiting their disassembly, resulting in inhibition of mitosis.
Mechanism of action
Docetaxel stabilizes microtubules, preventing cell division, thereby slowing cancer cell growth and leading to cell death.
Dosage
Adult (Breast Cancer): 60-100 mg/m² IV over 1 hour once every 3 weeks.
Adult (NSCLC, Prostate, Head/Neck, Gastric): 75 mg/m² IV over 1 hour once every 3 weeks.
Hepatic impairment: Mild-moderate: reduce dose from 100 to 75 mg/m²; Severe: avoid use.
Administration
Administered as an intravenous infusion over 1 hour by healthcare professionals. Oral corticosteroid premedication is required prior to treatment.
Missed dose
Docetaxel is an injection medicine given by healthcare professionals. You cannot miss a dose yourself.
Side effects
Common: Infections, neutropenia, anemia, febrile neutropenia, hypersensitivity, thrombocytopenia, neuropathy, dysgeusia, dyspnea, constipation, anorexia, nail disorders, fluid retention, asthenia, pain, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, mucositis, alopecia, skin reactions, myalgia.
Precautions & warnings
May affect driving ability. Higher risk of severe adverse reactions in hepatic impairment. Do not use if neutrophil count <1500 cells/mm³. Avoid during pregnancy and lactation.
Contraindications
Neutrophil count <1500 cells/mm³; history of severe hypersensitivity to docetaxel or polysorbate 80; severe hepatic impairment; pregnancy.
Drug interactions
CYP3A4 inducers, inhibitors, or substrates: May alter docetaxel metabolism.
Food interactions
It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Docetaxel.
Use in pregnancy
Pregnancy Category D. Docetaxel is unsafe during pregnancy. There is definite evidence of risk to the developing baby.
Pregnancy Category: D — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Docetaxel is unsafe during breastfeeding. The drug may cause toxicity to the baby.
Pediatric use
Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.
Geriatric use
No specific dosage adjustment is necessary for elderly patients. However, caution should be exercised.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal impairment: Safe in kidney disease; no dose adjustment recommended.
Hepatic impairment: Use with caution; dose adjustment may be needed.
Overdose effects
Overdose may cause bone marrow suppression, peripheral neurotoxicity, and mucositis. Administer G-CSF therapy and supportive measures.
Storage conditions
Store between 2°C and 25°C, protected from light. Freezing does not adversely affect the product.
Chemical structure
Docetaxel