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Taxanes (docetaxel [Taxotere], paclitaxel [Taxol])

Taxanes are anti-cancer drugs that work in a slightly different way from other types of chemotherapy.
They interfere with the 'scaffolding' that cancer cells need to help them multiply. You may be offered docetaxel or paclitaxel if you have secondary breast cancer and other types of chemotherapy haven't helped you, or your doctor doesn't think they are right for you.

How do you take them?

Both docetaxel and paclitaxel are given into a vein, as an injection or a drip. You'll probably have up to six cycles of treatment.

Side effects

These include:

  • Nausea
  • Tiredness
  • Infections
  • Partial or complete hair loss
  • Diarrhoea
  • Fluid retention
  • Tingling in your fingers & toes

To find out more about this treatment, visit the Cancerbackup website.

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