Cancer medicines

Paclitaxel

Paclitaxel

A taxane chemotherapy that interferes with cell division.

Sources checked · Introductory guide

On this page

How it works

Acts on microtubules. Conventional and albumin-bound formulations must be distinguished.[1]

Where it is used

Used for breast, ovarian and non-small cell lung cancers, among others.[1]

Key safety points

Watch for low blood counts, numbness and infusion reactions. Report fever or breathing difficulty during infusion immediately.[2]

Questions for your care team

  • Which formulation and premedicines will I receive?

Sources and scope

Source documents are in English.

  1. NCI · Paclitaxel (opens in a new tab)
  2. MedlinePlus · Paclitaxel (opens in a new tab)

General information based on official public sources. This is not a complete list of uses or side effects. Individual treatment decisions require your care team and current source documents. US-source uses do not establish local approval or reimbursement.

Related entries

Paclitaxel | Cancer Encyclopedia | My Chemo Diary