Docetaxel and Alcohol/Food Interactions

You should preferably avoid the regular consumption of grapefruits and grapefruit juice while taking DOCEtaxel. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can significantly increase the blood levels of DOCEtaxel. This may increase the risk of side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, mouth sores, fluid retention, nerve pain, numbness, tingling, muscle pain or weakness, and impaired bone marrow function resulting in low numbers of different types of blood cells. You may also be more likely to develop anemia, bleeding problems, or infections due to low blood cell counts. Your doctor may be able to prescribe alternatives that do not interact, or you may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring to safely use both medications. You should contact your doctor if you develop paleness, fatigue, dizziness, fainting, unusual bruising or bleeding, fever, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, muscle aches, shortness of breath, blood in phlegm, weight loss, red or inflamed skin, body sores, and pain or burning during urination. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.