What is Taxotere? :
Taxotere is a chemotherapy drug used to treat cancer, commonly advanced cases of breast cancer. Its generic name is docetaxel. It is also used to treat small cell lung cancer and prostate cancer.How does Taxotere work do fight cancer?:
Taxotere is a drug that attacks the "skeleton of the cell" The skeleton is the supporting structure. Taxotere makes the cell skeleton very stiff, so it it unable to grow.How is Taxotere given and how often?:
Taxotere is given in an IV form. it is usually given every 3 weeks for 1 hour. Your doctor will plan a treatment schedule for you.Taxotere Side Effects:
Low red/white blood cell count, fluid retention, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, color changes to toenails and fingernails, weakness, hair loss, infectionReducing Side Effects/Allergies:
A drug called dexamethasone may be prescribed prior to treatments. Dexamethasone is used to combat allergic reactions or side effects. it is very successful at combating fluid retention with caused by a taxotere infusion.Fingernail and Toenail Loss:
Importunely, these are side effects of treatment. Fingernails and toenails break and fall off. A really great way to prevent this from happening is to ice the fingernails and toenails during each IV infusion. You can get ice packs, or I have even seen patients bring bags of frozen vegetables.Less Common Side Effects:
joint, muscle, bone pain, low platelet count,Side Effects That Require Medical Attention:
Fever of 100.5 F or higher, chills, unusual bleeding/bruising, black/ tarry stools, blood in your stools or urine, shortness of breath, extreme fatigue, yellowing of the skin or eyes, ankle or stomach swelling
