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Paclitaxel

This page provides concise information about the drug paclitaxel, including its indications, dosage and administration, mechanism of action, related brands with strengths, warnings, and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Paclitaxel, an anticancer chemotherapy drug, received medical approval in December 1992.

Mechanism of Action of Paclitaxel

Paclitaxel is a chemotherapeutic agent classified under microtubule inhibitors, a category of medications. Microtubules are structures crucial for the growth and development of cancer cells. Paclitaxel functions by inhibiting these structures, thereby halting the multiplication of cancer cells. It is prescribed both as a standalone treatment and in combination with other anticancer medications.

AVAILABLE BRANDS

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Paclimin 100mg Injecti
Aureate Healthcare pvt Ltd ₹6410.00
NAB Altaxel 100mg Injection
Alkem Laboratories Ltd ₹5392.00
NAB Celtax 100mg Injection
Celon Laboratories Ltd ₹5295.00
Nabtoxol 100mg Injection
Mylan Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd ₹7059.00
Nanopacli 100mg Injection
ABBOTT ₹10870.20

Uses of Paclitaxel

Paclitaxel has been formulated to address specific types of cancer, including breast cancer, ovarian cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, and AIDS-induced Kaposi’s sarcoma in individuals who have not shown favorable responses to previous anticancer treatments.

Paclitaxel Drug administaration and Dosage available

Paclitaxel is offered in injection form with doses of 30mg, 100mg, 260mg, and 300mg. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage based on your condition and administer it as an intravenous infusion following dilution.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of Paclitaxel

Warnings

It is not advisable to use Paclitaxel Injection if you are allergic to Paclitaxel, polyoxyethylated castor oil, or any of its components. Throughout Paclitaxel treatment, your doctor may regularly monitor your complete blood counts, blood sugar, electrolytes, liver panel, and kidney parameters to prevent potential complications. Inform your doctor if you have a history of stomach ulcers, anemia, lung disease, or issues with your heart, liver, skin, or kidneys. Prior to undergoing surgery or dental procedures, notify your physician. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience persistent severe stomach pain, diarrhea, or vomiting.

Precautions

The potential harm of Paclitaxel to an unborn baby is not known. Prior to commencing this treatment, inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or intending to become pregnant. It is recommended for both men and women to use appropriate contraceptive methods during and for 3 months following the final dose of Paclitaxel. Refrain from breastfeeding your baby while undergoing the treatment and for 2 weeks after the last dose of Paclitaxel.

Side Effects

Common side effects that may occur during Paclitaxel treatment include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, hair loss, rashes, decreased blood counts, joint pain, muscle pain, infections, changes in liver function tests, abnormal heartbeat, decreased appetite, swelling of hands and feet, dehydration, numbness, and tingling sensation. If you encounter allergic reactions, fever, breathing difficulties, or any other unusual responses after taking this medication, promptly inform your doctor.

Word Of Advice

Maintain proper hydration and a balanced diet during Paclitaxel treatment. If you encounter dizziness or fatigue, refrain from driving or operating heavy machinery.

Frequently Asked Question

Paclitaxel is prescribed as a monotherapy and also as a maintenance therapy for treating non- small cell lung cancer, breast cancer, ovarian cancer and Kaposis sarcoma.
Before starting treatment with Paclitaxel, your healthcare provider will recommend complete blood count, liver function tests, kidney function tests and signs of dehydration.
Consumption of alcohol is not recommended while on treatment with Paclitaxel. Discuss with your healthcare provider before starting treatment with Paclitaxel if you drink alcohol on a regular basis.
It typically takes few days to a week after receiving Paclitaxel Injection for muscle and joint pain to subside. You mau need to take painkiller medications on advice of uour doctor if uour pain is severe.
People with very low WBC count (less than 1500 cells/mm3) and those allergic to Paclitaxel, polyoxyethylated castor oil and other excipients of the medicine should not receive Paclitaxel Injection.
It is not recommended to smoke cigarettes while on treatment with Paclitaxel as smoking can reduce the concentration of Paclitaxel in the body.
Store Paclitaxel Injection at 20-25°C, away from the reach of children.

References

  1. Anton Wellstein, Giuseppe Giaccone, Michael B. Atkins, and Edward A. Sausville, Goodman & Gilman’s Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Cytotoxic Drugs, 13th Edition, 2018, 1167-1201.
  2. Pfizer, [Revised on Apr 2021] [Accessed on 5th Oct 2022], https://labeling.pfizer.com/ShowLabeling.aspx?id=4559
  3. Abraxis BioScience, LLC., [Revised on Aug 2020] [Accessed on 5th Oct 2022], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/021660s047lbl.pdf

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is different from medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.