Docax (Docetaxel) is a chemotherapy medication classified as a taxane. It is used in the treatment of various cancers, including breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, gastric cancer, and head and neck cancer. Docetaxel works by inhibiting cell division, which prevents cancer cells from multiplying and growing.

Uses

Breast Cancer:

• Used in early-stage and metastatic breast cancer as monotherapy or in combination with other drugs.

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC):

• Effective as a first-line or second-line treatment.

Prostate Cancer:

• Administered in combination with prednisone for hormone-refractory metastatic prostate cancer.

Gastric Cancer:

• Used in advanced gastric cancer in combination with other agents.

Head and Neck Cancer:

• Effective in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.

Docetaxel binds to tubulin and stabilizes microtubules, preventing their disassembly. This disruption inhibits cell division during the mitotic phase, leading to apoptosis of cancer cells.

Dosages

The dosage of Docetaxel varies depending on the type of cancer and patient-specific factors such as body surface area (BSA):

• Breast Cancer: 75-100 mg/m² every three weeks.
• Lung Cancer: 75 mg/m² every three weeks.
• Prostate Cancer: 75 mg/m² every three weeks, combined with daily prednisone (5 mg twice daily).
• Gastric Cancer: 75 mg/m² in combination with cisplatin and fluorouracil every three weeks.
• Head and Neck Cancer: 75 mg/m² every three weeks.

Note: Premedication with corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone) is recommended to reduce hypersensitivity and fluid retention.

Side Effects

Common side effects:

1. Nausea and vomiting
2. Hair loss (alopecia)
3. Fatigue
4. Low blood counts (neutropenia, anemia)
5. Diarrhea

Serious side effects:

• Severe allergic reactions
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Liver function abnormalities
• Cardiac toxicity
• Severe infections due to immunosuppression

Precautions

Allergy Risk:

• Monitor for hypersensitivity reactions during infusion.

Bone Marrow Suppression:

• Regular blood count monitoring is essential.

Liver Function:

• Not recommended in patients with severe liver impairment.

Pregnancy and Lactation:

• Not safe for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Elderly Patients:

• Caution is advised due to increased risk of toxicity.

Storage

• Store at 2°C to 8°C (refrigerator).
• Protect from light.

Administration

• Administered as an intravenous infusion over 1 hour.
• It must be diluted before use, following proper aseptic techniques.