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Paclitaxel Injectable Solution (PACLITAXEL - INJECTION)

For treating cancer.

Generic Name: Paclitaxel

Instructions

This medicine is given as an IV injection into a vein.

This medicine should be given by a trained health care provider.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Your doctor may prescribe other medications to reduce side effects. Follow instructions carefully.

Keep using this medicine for the full number of days that it is prescribed. Do not stop the medicine even if you start to feel better.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients on this medicine have developed severe, life-threatening infections. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

If possible, avoid using with marijuana or other medicines that can cause dizziness or drowsiness. These include allergy/cold products, muscle relaxers, sleep aids, and pain relievers.

This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine.

This medicine can cause birth defects. Speak with your doctor about birth control methods that should be used while on this medicine.

This medicine may damage sperm. Men should use reliable birth control while taking this medicine.

Call your doctor right away if you notice any unusual bleeding or bruising.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • diarrhea
  • dizziness or drowsiness
  • feeling of heat or flushing
  • hair loss
  • mouth sores or irritation
  • joint or muscle pain
  • nausea and vomiting

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • bleeding or bruising
  • chest pain
  • confusion
  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • fainting
  • fever or chills
  • hearing loss
  • fast, irregular, or slow heartbeat
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection
  • sudden leg pain, swelling, warmth or redness
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • seizures
  • shortness of breath
  • sore throat
  • blurring or changes of vision

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.