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 Taxol, and may be different if you are having more than one chemotherapy drug.
We have outlined the most common and less common side effects, 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 these with your doctor or chemotherapy nurse.
Lowered resistance to infection Taxol can reduce the production of white blood cells by the bone marrow, making you more prone to infection. This effect can begin seven days after treatment has been given and your resistance to infection usually reaches its lowest point 10–14 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 Taxol 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) While having treatment with Taxol you may become anaemic. This may make you feel tired and breathless. Let your doctor or nurse know if these are a problem.
Sore mouth and ulcers Your mouth may become sore, or you may notice small ulcers during this treatment. Drinking plenty of fluids and cleaning your teeth regularly and gently with a soft toothbrush can help to reduce the risk of this happening. Tell your nurse or doctor if you have any of these problems, as special mouthwashes and medicines to prevent or clear any mouth infection can be prescribed.
Taste changes You may notice that your food tastes different. Normal taste will usually come back after the treatment finishes.
Diarrhoea This can usually be easily controlled with medicine but let your doctor know if it is severe or if it continues. It is important to drink plenty of fluids if you do have diarrhoea.
Tiredness and feeling weak You may feel very tired. It is important to allow yourself plenty of time to rest.
Hair loss This usually starts 2–3 weeks after the first dose of paclitaxel, although it may happen earlier. Hair is usually lost completely but may just thin. You may also have thinning and loss of eyelashes, eyebrows and other body hair. Hair loss is temporary and your hair will regrow once the treatment is finished. To help reduce hair loss, scalp cooling may be suitable for some people.
Aching or pain in joints and muscles This may occur a few days after paclitaxel is given. It does not usually last long and your doctor may prescribe painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs to help.
Skin changes Taxol can cause a rash, which may be itchy. Your doctor can prescribe medicine to help with this.
Numbness or tingling in hands or feet. This is due to the effect of Taxol on nerves and is known as peripheral neuropathy. You may also notice that you have difficulty doing up buttons or similar fiddly tasks. Tell your doctor if you notice any numbness or tingling in your hands or feet. This usually improves slowly a few months after the treatment is finished.
Headaches Some people find that Taxol causes headaches. Let your doctor know if you have headaches while having treatment.
Allergic reaction Signs of an allergic reaction include skin rashes and itching, a high temperature, shivering, redness of the face, a feeling of dizziness, headache, breathlessness, anxiety and a desire to pass urine. You will be monitored for any signs of an allergic reaction during the treatment. Tell your doctor or nurse if you have any of these signs.
You will be given steroid tablets (usually dexamethasone) to take before the Taxol to reduce the chance of an allergic reaction. If you are given any of these tablets before treatment it is important to take them as directed and to tell your doctor or nurse if you forget.
Nausea (feeling sick) and vomiting If you do feel sick it may begin soon after the treatment is given and last for a few days. Your doctor can now prescribe very effective anti-sickness (anti-emetic) drugs to prevent or greatly reduce nausea and vomiting. If the sickness is not controlled or continues, tell your doctor, who can prescribe other anti-sickness drugs that may be more effective.
