Each person’s reaction to chemotherapy is different. Some people have very few side effects, while others may experience more. The side effects described in this information will not affect everyone who is given Taxotere, and may be different if you are having more than one chemotherapy drug.
We have outlined the most common side effects and some of the less common ones, so that you can be aware of them if they occur. However, we have not included those that are very rare and therefore extremely unlikely to affect you. If you do notice any effects which you think may be due to the drug but which are not listed in this information, please discuss them with your doctor or chemotherapy nurse.
Lowered resistance to infection This treatment can reduce the production of white blood cells by the bone marrow, making you more prone to infection. This effect can begin five days after treatment has been given, with your resistance to infection usually reaching its lowest point 7–10 days after chemotherapy. Your blood cells will then increase steadily and will usually have returned to normal levels before your next cycle of chemotherapy is due.
Contact your doctor or the hospital straightaway if:
- Your temperature goes above 38ºC (100.5ºF)
- You suddenly feel unwell (even with a normal temperature).
You will have a blood test before having more chemotherapy to make sure that your cells have recovered. Occasionally, it may be necessary to delay your treatment if the number of blood cells (the blood count) is still low.
Bruising or bleeding Taxotere can reduce the production of platelets (which help the blood to clot). Let your doctor know if you have any unexplained bruising or bleeding, such as nosebleeds, blood spots or rashes on the skin, and bleeding gums.
Anaemia (low number of red blood cells) You may become anaemic while having this treatment. This may make you feel tired and breathless. Let your doctor or nurse know if these symptoms are a problem.
Feeling sick (nausea) and being sick (vomiting) Your doctor can prescribe very effective anti-sickness (anti-emetic) drugs to prevent or reduce nausea and vomiting. If the sickness is not controlled, or if it continues, tell your doctor. They can prescribe other anti-sickness drugs which may be more effective. Some anti-sickness drugs may cause constipation. Let your doctor or nurse know if this is a problem.
Sore mouth and ulcers Your mouth may become sore or dry, or you may notice small ulcers during this treatment. Tell your nurse or doctor if you have any of these problems, as they can give you mouthwashes or medicines to prevent or clear any mouth infection. Using a soft toothbrush may be helpful.
Taste changes You may notice that your food tastes different. Normal taste will usually come back after the treatment finishes.
Diarrhoea This may occur several days after the treatment. Diarrhoea can usually be easily controlled with medicine. Try to drink as many as 2–3 litres of liquid a day to replace the fluid you are losing. Let your doctor know if diarrhoea is severe or lasts for more than 24 hours.
Hair loss This usually starts 3–4 weeks after the first course of treatment and is due to the Taxotere. All your hair will probably fall out. You may also have thinning and loss of eyelashes, eyebrows and other body hair. Hair loss is temporary and your hair will start to regrow once the treatment has finished. Scalp cooling is a method of reducing hair loss that may be helpful for some people. You can ask your doctor or nurse if it is available at your hospital.
Skin changes Taxotere can cause a rash. Your doctors can prescribe medicine to help with this.
Soreness and redness of the palms of the hands and soles of the feet (sometimes known as palmar plantar or hand-foot syndrome). This is temporary and will improve when treatment is finished. Your doctor can prescribe medicine to help with this.
Allergic reaction Some people can have an allergic reaction to Taxotere while it is being given. Signs of this can include skin rashes and itching, a high temperature, shivering, dizziness, a headache and breathlessness. You will be given steroids to take at home the day before treatment to reduce the chance of this happening. It is important to take the steroids as you have been directed. Let your nurse or doctor know immediately if you have any of these symptoms. If you have an allergic reaction it can be treated quickly.
Tiredness and feeling weak You may feel very tired. It is important to allow yourself plenty of time to rest.
Fluid retention You may notice that you gain weight and/or that your ankles swell. This decreases slowly once your treatment has finished. The steroid tablets that you are given to take the day before treatment will help reduce the chance of fluid retention. They may also help to reduce the chance of an allergic reaction.
