Docetaxel Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of docetaxel include hair loss, anemia, and low levels of certain white blood cells. In most cases, people have no problems; if side effects do occur, they are often mild and easily treated. However, you should notify your healthcare provider right away if you develop more serious side effects, such as blood in the stool, severe mouth sores, and severe vomiting or diarrhea.

Docetaxel (Taxotere)

An Introduction to Docetaxel Side Effects

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with docetaxel (Docefrez™, Taxotere^®). However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.

(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with docetaxel. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of docetaxel side effects with you.)

Common Side Effects Seen With Docetaxel

Docetaxel has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials, in which the side effects of a group of people taking the drug are documented. In these studies, the most common side effects included:

Neutropenia (low levels of a certain type of white blood cell called neutrophils) -- in up to 100 percent of people
Leukopenia (low levels of another type of white blood cell called leukocytes) -- up to 98.6 percent
Anemia -- up to 94.6 percent (see Chemotherapy and Anemia)
Hair loss -- up to 75.8 percent (see Taxotere and Hair Loss)
Fluid retention -- up to 66.7 percent (see Fluid Retention During Chemotherapy)
Mouth sores -- up to 66.7 percent (see Mouth and Gum Problems During Chemotherapy)
Weakness -- up to 66.3 percent
Nerve pain or unusual burning or tingling sensations -- up to 58.3 percent (see Nerve and Muscle Problems During Chemotherapy).

Other common docetaxel side effects, occurring in 9 to 45 percent of people, included:

Low platelets in the blood (see Blood Clotting Problems and Chemotherapy)
Diarrhea (see Chemotherapy-Induced Diarrhea)
Nail changes (see Skin and Nail Problems With Chemotherapy)
Nausea (see Chemotherapy and Nausea)
Muscle pain
Vomiting
Joint pain.

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