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Taxol
(paclitaxel)-
In this factsheet:
- How does Taxol work? What will it do for me?
- How should I use Taxol?
- What form(s) does Taxol come in?
- Who should NOT take Taxol?
- What side effects are possible with Taxol?
- Are there any other precautions or warnings for Taxol?
- What other drugs could interact with Taxol?
DIN (Drug Identification Number)
| 02016796 | TAXOL 6MG/ML |
How does Taxol work? What will it do for me?
Paclitaxel belongs to the group of cancer-fighting medications known as antineoplastics. Paclitaxel works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells in your body. Paclitaxel is used alone or in combination with other cancer medications to treat cancers of the ovary, breast, or lung. It may also be used to treat another form of cancer called Kaposi's sarcoma.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor.
How should I use Taxol?
The recommended dose and dosing schedule of paclitaxel varies according to the specific type of cancer being treated, the response to treatment, and other medications or treatments being used. The dose given is also based on body size. Paclitaxel is usually injected into a vein (intravenously) by a qualified health professional through a specially prepared site on your skin. It is often scheduled to be given in this manner over a 3-hour period once every 3 weeks.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. Very careful handling of this medication is required. It is always given under the supervision of a doctor in a hospital or similar setting with access to sterile equipment for preparation.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.
What form(s) does Taxol come in?
Each mL contains paclitaxel 6 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: dehydrated ethanol 49.7% v/v and purified Cremophor EL (polyethoxyethylated castor oil 527 mg).
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
Who should NOT take Taxol?
Paclitaxel should not be used by anyone who:
- is allergic to paclitaxel, polyethoxylated castor oil, or to any of the ingredients of the medication
- has a very low level of neutrophils (a type of white blood cell) in their blood
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