Generic name: paclitaxel [ PAK-li-TAK-sel ]
Brand names: Onxol, Taxol
Dosage form: intravenous solution (6 mg/mL)
Drug class:Mitotic inhibitors
What is paclitaxel?
Paclitaxel is used to treat breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and lung cancer. It is also used to treat AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma.
Paclitaxel is sometimes given after other treatments have failed.
Paclitaxel may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; feeling like you might pass out; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Paclitaxel can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections and help your blood to clot. You may get an infection or bleed more easily. Call your doctor if you have unusual bruising or bleeding, or signs of infection (fever, sore throat, mouth sores, cough).
Before taking this medicine
You should not be treated with paclitaxel if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
low white blood cell (WBC) counts; or
an allergy to castor oil (contained in paclitaxel and other medicines such as cyclosporine or teniposide).
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
heart problems; or
liver disease....
