Taxotere (docetaxel)

This section explains briefly what Taxotere is, when it may be prescribed, how it works, what the benefits are and what side effects may occur. Taxotere is the brand name of the drug, which is used throughout this section. Most people know it by this name, although its generic (general) name is docetaxel.

Page Contents

What is Taxotere?
Who might be offered Taxotere?
How does Taxotere work?
How is it given?
What are the side effects of Taxotere?
Further support
Help from Action Breast Cancer

What is Taxotere?

Taxotere is a chemotherapy drug that belongs to a group of drugs called taxoids or taxanes.
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Who might be offered Taxotere?

Taxotere is used to treat locally advanced breast cancer (cancer that is widespread in the breast area) or secondary breast cancer (cancer that has spread to other parts of the body). It may also be used to treat primary breast cancer as part of a clinical trial. For more information see our factsheet on Clinical Trials.
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How does Taxotere work?

When normal cells start dividing structures called microtubules are formed. Once the cells stop dividing these microtubules are broken down or destroyed. However, with cancer cells Taxotere stops the microtubules from breaking down. The cells become blocked by microtubules so that they can’t grow and divide, and they eventually die.
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How is it given?

Taxotere is given as a drip into a vein in the hand or arm and you will usually have four to six treatments as an outpatient. Taxotere is normally given every three weeks over a one-hour period. It may also be given weekly. Taxotere is sometimes given with other types of chemotherapy and anti-cancer drugs. Your specialist will probably want to assess how well the treatment is working after a number of sessions.
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What are the side effects of Taxotere?

Like any drug, Taxotere can cause side effects. However, everyone reacts differently to drugs and some people have more side effects than others. The side effects of Taxotere can usually be controlled. If you are concerned about any side effects, talk to your chemotherapy nurse or anyone in your treatment team. If you are being given other chemotherapy or anti-cancer drugs with Taxotere you may have additional side effects.

Hair loss (alopecia)

Most people will lose all their hair, including eyebrows, eyelashes and body hair, which can be a shock. You may begin to lose your hair about two weeks after the first treatment. Hair loss is usually gradual but it can happen very quickly, sometimes over a couple of days. The hair loss is temporary and your hair will begin to grow back about a month after your treatment has ended. You may like to look into suitable hair pieces before you loose your hair. There is less hair loss when Taxotere is given weekly.

Effects on the blood

Taxotere can have a temporary effect on bone marrow, which is where blood cells are made. This can result in a low white cell count (increased risk of infection), a low platelet count (risk of bruising or bleeding) and occasionally a low red cell count (anaemia). The blood count will normally fall about five to ten days after you start your treatment. If it drops below a certain level your next treatment may be delayed until your white cell count is within safe levels. You will have regular blood tests throughout your treatment.

Fluid retention and weight gain

You may develop oedema (a build up of fluid in the body). This can result in swollen ankles and legs. You may also put on weight, but you will usually lose it again once the treatment has finished. The drugs that you are given to prevent any allergic reaction will help reduce the risk of fluid building up.

Numbness and/or tingling in hands or feet

A few people receiving Taxotere experience numbness or tingling in their hands and feet. This is due to the effect of Taxotere on the nerves and is known as peripheral neuropathy. It can vary from mild to severe. If it is severe then it may be necessary either to reduce the dose of the drug or to stop it completely. This side effect normally wears off within approximately three months.

Nausea

You may experience nausea although it is usually mild. You may start to feel sick a few hours after your treatment but you will usually be given medication to stop this happening. If this medication does not work, tell your nurse or doctor and they can prescribea different medication for you.

Diarrhoea

You may have some diarrhoea but your specialist or GP can prescribe medication to help control it. If it continues, contact your oncology nurse or doctor. Sore mouth You may find that your mouth is sore and small ulcers develop. Your specialist or chemotherapy nurse will advise you on suitable mouthwashes. Take care when brushing your teeth and use a soft tooth brush.

Allergic reaction

If you have an allergic reaction to Taxotere it will probably happen within the first few minutes of your treatment. You will be given a combination of drugs to reduce the risk of an allergic reaction. You will be monitored closely during your treatment so that any reaction can be dealt with immediately. Reactions can vary from mild to severe. Symptoms include flushing, skin rash, itching, back pain, shortness of breath, faintness, fever or chills. If you have a severe reaction treatment will be stopped immediately and you may not be given Taxotere again.

Painful muscles and joints

The muscles or joints may ache or become painful two to three days after you have your treatment. This usually wears off after a few days, although occasionally it can be severe and you may need to take painkillers.

Tiredness or fatigue

You may become very tired after your treatment and this feeling can last for about a week. If you feel like this it is important to get plenty of rest. For our booklet Understanding Fatigue call the National Cancer Freefone Helpline on 1800 200 700.

Skin reactions

You may develop a skin rash anywhere on your body although it is most common on the hands and feet. Your skin may become red, dry and flaky. The symptoms can be improved by using a glycerine-based hand cream.

Nail reactions

The colour of your nails may change after several treatments with Taxotere but it will normally grow out over several months.

Changes in heart rate

On rare occasions Taxotere can slow the heart rate so you will be carefully monitored for this during your treatment. If it happens it can be treated easily and does not mean you will have to stop your treatment. This is not the same as having an allergic reaction to Taxotere
(see above).

Pain in the injection site

In a few cases mild pain can occur where the needle has been inserted or anywhere along the vein. If you are in pain tell your chemotherapy nurse immediately. After a few weeks you may notice tenderness, darkening and hardening a few centimetres above where the needle was inserted. This should fade in time.

Effects on the liver

On very rare occasions, Taxotere may affect how well your liver works. This is temporary and will return to normal when the treatment has stopped. You will have regular blood tests to monitor this throughout your treatment.
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Further support

If you have any concerns about taking Taxotere you can talk to your specialist, chemotherapy nurse or breast care nurse. You might find it easier to share your feelings with someone who has had a similar experience to you. Reach to Recovery is a programme set up to help and support women who have recently had a breast cancer diagnosis. The programme works on the principle of personal contact between the patient and a Reach to Recovery volunteer – a woman who has had breast surgery. Carefully selected and fully trained volunteers are available to provide advice and reassurance at a time when a woman is most in need of both. For more information on individual support or support groups in your area, call the Naional Cancer Freefone Helpline on 1800 200 700.
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Help from Action Breast Cancer

Action Breast Cancer is a national project established by the Irish Cancer Society to provide breast cancer information and support and to fund breast cancer research. Its services are free, confidential and accessible. For more information call the National Cancer Helpline on Freefone 1800 200 700 or visit www.cancer.ie
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ABC would like to thank Breast Cancer Care in the UK for their permission to adapt the text in this factsheet from their series of factsheets.