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Doxoteva Information

Doxoteva (Docetaxel for injection) is a chemotherapy medication used to treat various types of cancer. It is indicated for the treatment of breast cancer, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), prostate cancer, gastric adenocarcinoma (stomach cancer), and head and neck cancer (squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, SCCHN). Docetaxel belongs to a class of drugs called taxanes, which work by interfering with the normal processes of cell division. Specifically, docetaxel stabilizes microtubules, which are essential structures for cell replication. By stabilizing microtubules, Doxoteva prevents cancer cells from dividing and growing, ultimately leading to their death. This leads to a reduction in tumour size and progression of cancer. Doxoteva delivers the active substance docetaxel, which specifically targets the cell's internal machinery, helping to control the growth and spread of various types of cancer.

Doxoteva Side Effects

The most common side effects of Doxoteva may include myelosuppression (low blood cell counts, leading to increased risk of infection, anemia, and bleeding), fluid retention (swelling), hair loss, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, mucositis (mouth sores), fatigue, nail changes, constipation, altered taste, and skin reactions. Call your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, such as:
• Bloody diarrhea
• Chest pain
• Heart problems: fast or irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, swelling in your ankles or feet
• Liver problems: yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes, dark urine, unusual tiredness, loss of appetite, pain on the right side of your stomach area
• Lung problems (pneumonitis or interstitial lung disease): new or worsening cough, shortness of breath, fever
• Nerve problems (neuropathy): numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in your hands or feet
• Severe fluid retention: severe swelling in your legs or feet, rapid weight gain, shortness of breath
• Severe myelosuppression with fever (febrile neutropenia): signs of infection like fever, chills, sore throat, or unusual tiredness
• Severe skin reactions: red, swollen, blistering, or peeling skin (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis)
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, breathing difficulties, itching or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
• Vision changes (e.g., blurred vision, loss of vision)

Doxoteva Precautions

Do not use Doxoteva if you are allergic to docetaxel or polysorbate 80 (an ingredient in the formulation), if you have a neutrophil count of less than 1,500 cells/mm3 or if you have severe liver impairment. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, including if you have liver problems, kidney problems, heart problems, lung or breathing problems, a history of allergic reactions to other taxane drugs (like paclitaxel), a history of fluid retention, or a history of low white blood cell counts. Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between Doxoteva and other medications, especially those metabolized by the CYP3A4 enzyme (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin, cyclosporine, midazolam, ritonavir, indinavir, saquinavir), which can alter docetaxel levels. Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking this drug, as it can increase docetaxel levels. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant before using Doxoteva. Doxoteva can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Females of reproductive potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for 2 months after the last dose. Males with female partners of reproductive potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for 4 months after the previous dose. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed before using Doxoteva. The safety of docetaxel in breastfeeding is unknown. Do not breastfeed during treatment and for 1 week after the last dose due to the potential for severe adverse reactions in breastfed infants. Do not use this medicine in children without talking to your doctor. The safety and effectiveness of Doxoteva in children have not been established.

Use your medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Doxoteva comes as a solution for injection and is administered intravenously (into a vein), typically over a period of 1 hour. It is generally given in a hospital or clinic setting by a healthcare professional experienced in administering chemotherapy. You will receive premedication with oral corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone) before each Doxoteva infusion to reduce the incidence and severity of fluid retention and hypersensitivity reactions. It is crucial to take these medications exactly as instructed. Doxoteva is usually given every 3 weeks. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose and duration of treatment based on your specific cancer type, body surface area, and response to treatment. Your doctor may order regular blood tests to monitor your blood cell counts, liver function, and other parameters and adjust your dosage as needed based on side effects. Report any pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site immediately during or after administration. Continue taking Doxoteva as directed by your doctor. This medication is a potent chemotherapy agent and requires careful medical supervision. Store Doxoteva as instructed by your healthcare provider. Keep all medicines out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Doxoteva?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Doxoteva.