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Abraxane Side Effects

Generic name: paclitaxel protein-bound

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 29, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Abraxane Side Effects associated with paclitaxel protein-bound. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Abraxane.

Applies to paclitaxel protein-bound: intravenous powder for suspension.

Important warnings This medicine can cause some serious health issues

Intravenous route (powder for suspension)

Severe Myelosuppression. Do not administer paclitaxel protein-bound particles therapy to patients with baseline neutrophil counts less than 1500 cells/mm(3).Monitor for neutropenia, which may be severe and result in infection or sepsis.Perform frequent complete blood cell counts on all patients receiving paclitaxel protein-bound particles.

Serious side effects of Abraxane

Along with its needed effects, paclitaxel protein-bound (the active ingredient contained in Abraxane) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking paclitaxel protein-bound:

More common

  • black, tarry stools
  • bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet
  • blurred or double vision
  • chest pain
  • chills
  • cough
  • fever
  • loss of taste
  • lower back or side pain
  • painful or difficult urination
  • pale skin
  • rapid weight gain
  • sneezing
  • sore mouth, tongue, or throat
  • tightness in the chest
  • tingling of the hands or feet
  • troubled breathing with exertion
  • ulcers, sores, or white spots in the mouth
  • unusual bleeding or bruising
  • unusual weight gain or loss
  • unusual tiredness or weakness

Less common

  • anxiety
  • bleeding
  • blood in the urine or stools
  • burning, tingling, numbness or pain in the hands, arms, feet, or legs
  • confusion
  • difficulty with swallowing
  • dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position
  • fast, pounding, slow, or irregular heartbeat or pulse
  • general feeling of discomfort or illness
  • inability to move the arms, legs, or facial muscles
  • inability to speak
  • pain in the chest, groin, or legs, especially the calves
  • pinpoint red spots on the skin
  • rapid, shallow breathing
  • sensation of pins and needles
  • severe, sudden headache
  • skin itching, rash, or redness
  • slurred or slow speech
  • stabbing pain
  • sudden loss of coordination
  • sudden, severe weakness or numbness in the arms or legs
  • sudden, unexplained shortness of breath
  • sweating
  • swelling of the face, throat, or tongue
  • thickening of bronchial secretions
  • trouble thinking or walking

Other side effects of Abraxane

Some side effects of paclitaxel protein-bound may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

  • cracked lips
  • decreased appetite
  • diarrhea
  • difficulty with moving
  • headache
  • lack or loss of strength
  • loss of hair
  • muscle pain or stiffness
  • nausea
  • pain in the joints
  • swelling
  • vomiting

Less common

  • bleeding, blistering, burning, coldness, discoloration of the skin, a feeling of pressure, hives, infection, inflammation, itching, lumps, numbness, pain, rash, redness, scarring, soreness, stinging, swelling, tenderness, tingling, ulceration, or warmth at the injection site

Rare

  • nail changes

For healthcare professionals

Applies to paclitaxel protein-bound: intravenous powder for injection.

Dermatologic

Hematologic

Nervous system

Cardiovascular

Musculoskeletal

Hepatic

Gastrointestinal

Other

Respiratory

Hypersensitivity

Local

Ocular

Genitourinary

Metabolic

Oncologic

Psychiatric

Immunologic

References

1. "Product Information. Abraxane (PACLitaxel protein-bound)." American Pharmaceutical Partners

2. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics."

3. Cerner Multum, Inc. "Australian Product Information."

Further information

Abraxane side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.