Paclitaxel (Injection)

Paclitaxel (Injection)

Paclitaxel (PAK-li-tax-el)

Treats cancer of the ovaries and the breast. Also used to treat some kinds of lung cancer, and an AIDS-related cancer called Kaposi's sarcoma.

Brand Name(s):

Taxol, Onxol, Nov-Onxol, Paclitaxel Novaplus
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not be treated with this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to paclitaxel.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• This medicine, like all medicines used to treat cancer, is very strong. Make sure you understand why you are getting it and what the risks and benefits of treatment are. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor.
  
• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it will be given.
  
• Your medicine will be given through a tube put in one of your veins, usually in your arm, wrist, or hand and sometimes in your chest. This is called intravenous (in-tra-VEEN-us), or IV.
  
• A nurse or other caregiver trained to give cancer drugs will give your treatment.
  

If a dose is missed::

• This medicine needs to be given on a regular schedule. If you miss a dose, call your doctor, home health caregiver, or clinic where you get your treatments for instructions.
  

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• If you get your treatments at a clinic, the staff at the clinic will keep your medicine there.
  
• If you get your treatments at home, you may need to store your medicine. Keep the IV liquid at room temperature, away from heat and light. Do not use after the expiration date and time on the medicine label.
  
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.
  
• If you get your treatments at home, you should be given a special container for the used needles, medicine bag or bottles, and tubes. Put it where children or pets cannot reach it.
  

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.