What is this medication for?
Paclitaxel belongs to the group of cancer-fighting medications known as antineoplastics. Paclitaxel works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells in your body. Paclitaxel is used alone or in combination with other cancer medications for the treatment of cancers of the ovary, breast, or lung. It may also be used to treat another form of cancer called Kaposi's Sarcoma.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Paclitaxel by Mayne Pharma USA is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended dose and dosing schedule of paclitaxel varies according to the specific type of cancer being treated, the response to treatment, and other medications or treatments being used. The dose given is also based on body size. Paclitaxel is usually injected into a vein (intravenously) by a qualified health professional through a specially prepared site on your skin. It is often scheduled to be given in this manner over a 3-hour period once every 3 weeks.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. Very careful handling of this medication is required. It is always given under the supervision of a doctor in a hospital or similar setting with access to sterile equipment for preparation.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Paclitaxel should not be used by anyone who:
- is allergic to paclitaxel, Cremophor EL, or any ingredients of the medication
- has a very low level of neurophils (a type of white blood cell) in their blood