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Generic Name: Docetaxel
Brand Name(s): Taxotere®
IUPAC: (2R,3S)-N-carboxy-3-phenylisoserine, N-tert-butyl ester, 13-ester with 5, 20-epoxy-1, 2, 4, 7, 10, 13-hexahydroxytax-11-en-9-one 4-acetate 2-benzoate, trihydrate
FDA Approval: yes
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Usage: Malignancies for which docetaxel is used include: breast cancer (advanced or
metastatic) and non-small cell lung cancer. In 2007, docetaxel was approved by the FDA for use in combination with cisplatin and fluorouracil to treat locally advanced squamous cell
carcinoma of the head and neck.
(1) Docetaxel is administered as an intravenous infusion.
Mechanism: Docetaxel (Taxotere®) is a semi-synthetic drug and is closely related to paclitaxel (Taxol®, Onxol®). The original chemical was isolated from extracts taken from yew trees. Like paclitaxel, Docetaxel inhibits the breakdown of microtubules, interferes with cell division and causes cell death.
Side Effects: Common side effects include: bone marrow suppression, fluid retention, hair loss, infection due to bone marrow suppression, diarrhea and rash. Side effects may be different or more severe if docetaxel is being administered with other cancer treatments. Treatment with docetaxel is usually accompanied with steroids in order to prevent severe fluid retention. However, fluid retention still occurs in some cases. Docetaxel is a strong suppressor of bone marrow activity. It is important to monitor blood cell and platelet counts throughout the duration of treatment.
(2)Contraindications: Docetaxel should not be taken by women who are pregnant and patients should not become pregnant while using this drug, as it may have harmful affects on the developing fetus.
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