What it does
Docetaxel is a chemotherapy medication used to treat various types of cancer.
Commonly used for: breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, stomach cancer …
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 20:56:40 · updated 2026-07-26 11:47:14
About this medicine
Docetaxel is a chemotherapy medication used to treat various types of cancer.
What it treats
- breast cancer
- lung cancer
- prostate cancer
- stomach cancer
- head and neck cancer
How it works
Docetaxel works by stopping the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body.
Who it's for
This medication is for adults diagnosed with certain types of cancer.
Cautions
- • May cause low blood cell counts, increasing infection risk.
- • Can lead to severe allergic reactions in some patients.
- • Monitor liver function as it may affect liver health.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: docitaxel
Docetaxel is a taxane chemotherapy agent derived from the needles of the European yew tree (Taxus baccata). It is primarily used in the treatment of various cancers, including breast, lung, prostate, and stomach cancers. As a mitotic inhibitor, docetaxel interferes with the normal function of microtubules, which are essential for cell division. This leads to apoptosis of rapidly dividing cancer cells, making it effective in managing solid tumors.
Indications
- Breast cancer
- Non-small cell lung cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Head and neck cancer
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing recommendations, as pediatric dosing may differ significantly from adult dosing.
Adults: Refer to specific clinical guidelines for dosing information, which can vary based on cancer type and individual patient factors.
Mechanism of action
Docetaxel works by binding to the beta-tubulin subunit of microtubules, promoting the assembly of tubulin into stable microtubule structures while preventing their depolymerization. This disrupts the normal mitotic spindle formation, inhibiting cell division and leading to apoptosis in cancer cells. The stabilization of microtubules also contributes to the drug's cytotoxic effects.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effects of docetaxel include inhibition of cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis in cancer cells. Its cytotoxicity is dose-dependent, with higher doses leading to increased cell death. Docetaxel is also known to exhibit anti-angiogenic properties, which may contribute to its efficacy in tumor reduction by limiting blood supply to the tumor.
Pharmacokinetics
Docetaxel is administered intravenously and has a bioavailability of nearly 100% due to this route. It is highly protein-bound (approximately 95%) and is primarily metabolized by the liver via cytochrome P450 enzymes, particularly CYP3A4. The elimination half-life of docetaxel is approximately 36 hours, although this can vary based on patient factors. The drug is excreted mainly in feces, with a small proportion eliminated in urine.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to docetaxel or any of its excipients
- Severe liver impairment (Child-Pugh Class C)
- Neutrophil count less than 1500 cells/mm³
Adverse effects
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Alopecia
- Fatigue
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Hypersensitivity reactions
- Fluid retention
- Bone marrow suppression
Interactions
- CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase docetaxel levels
- CYP3A4 inducers may decrease docetaxel levels
- Concomitant use with other myelosuppressive agents may increase risk of bone marrow suppression
Precautions
- Monitor blood counts regularly during treatment
- Use caution in patients with liver impairment
- Assess for signs of hypersensitivity before administration
- Hydration is recommended to mitigate fluid retention
Pregnancy
Docetaxel is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus. Effective contraception should be used during treatment and for at least six months after therapy.
Breast-feeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with docetaxel and for at least one week after the last dose due to potential excretion in breast milk.
Storage
Store in a refrigerator at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius. Protect from light.
Formulations
- Injectable solution (concentration of 20 mg/ml, 80 mg/4 ml)
- Concentrate for solution for infusion
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.