PETAXEL INJECTION 30MG/5ML
PETAXEL INJECTION 30MG/5ML
What it does
Petaxel is a medication used primarily in cancer treatment.
Commonly used for: cancer, tumors
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 21:51:32 · updated 2026-03-23 04:36:37
About this medicine
Petaxel is a medication used primarily in cancer treatment.
What it treats
- cancer
- tumors
How it works
Petaxel works by stopping cancer cells from dividing and growing, which helps to slow down or stop the spread of cancer.
Who it's for
This medication is for adults who have specific types of cancer, as determined by their doctor.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: petaxel
Petaxel is an antineoplastic agent belonging to the taxane class, commonly used in the treatment of various cancers, including breast, lung, and ovarian cancer. It works by inhibiting cancer cell division and promoting apoptosis, thereby reducing tumor size and slowing disease progression.
Indications
- Breast cancer
- Non-small cell lung cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Kaposi's sarcoma
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific pediatric dosing information.
Adults: Refer to clinical guidelines for specific dosing; typically tailored based on individual patient factors, including cancer type and stage.
Mechanism of action
Petaxel binds to the beta-subunit of the tubulin heterodimer, thereby stabilizing the microtubule structure and preventing depolymerization. This action inhibits the normal mitotic spindle function, leading to cell cycle arrest in the metaphase, ultimately resulting in apoptosis of rapidly dividing cancer cells.
Pharmacodynamics
As a chemotherapeutic agent, petaxel exhibits dose-dependent cytotoxicity against tumor cells. It is particularly effective in treating solid tumors and has a significant impact on the progression of malignancies by interfering with the normal process of mitosis. The drug's effects are enhanced in rapidly dividing cells, making it effective against high-proliferation tumors.
Pharmacokinetics
Petaxel is administered intravenously and has a high volume of distribution, indicating extensive tissue uptake. It is metabolized primarily in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes, and its elimination half-life ranges from 10 to 50 hours, depending on the dose and individual patient factors. The drug is excreted mainly in feces, with a smaller percentage eliminated in urine. Factors such as hepatic function and drug interactions can significantly affect its pharmacokinetics.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to paclitaxel or any excipients
- Severe liver impairment
- Pregnancy
Adverse effects
- Myelosuppression leading to increased risk of infection and bleeding
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Alopecia
- Nausea and vomiting
- Hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis
- Diarrhea
- Mucositis
Interactions
- CYP2C8 and CYP3A4 inducers may decrease paclitaxel efficacy
- CYP2C8 and CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase paclitaxel toxicity
- Concurrent use with other myelosuppressive agents may increase bone marrow suppression
- Avoid combination with live vaccines due to immunosuppression
Precautions
- Monitor for signs of infection due to potential neutropenia
- Assess liver function before and during treatment
- Caution in patients with pre-existing peripheral neuropathy
- Pregnancy category D, consider risks versus benefits
Pregnancy
Paclitaxel is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with paclitaxel due to potential excretion in breast milk and effects on the nursing infant.
Storage
Store at room temperature, protected from light. Do not freeze.
Formulations
- Injection, solution for infusion
- 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.