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Taxol Side Effects

Generic name: paclitaxel

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 19, 2023.

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

Applies to paclitaxel: intravenous solution.

Important warnings This medicine can cause some serious health issues

Intravenous route (solution)

Anaphylaxis and severe hypersensitivity reactions characterized by dyspnea and hypotension requiring treatment, angioedema, and generalized urticaria have occurred in clinical trials.

Fatal reactions have occurred in patients despite premedication, and all patients should be pretreated with corticosteroids, diphenhydramine, and H2 antagonists.

Patients who experience severe hypersensitivity reactions to paclitaxel should not be rechallenged with the drug.

Paclitaxel therapy should not be given to patients with solid tumors who have baseline neutrophil counts of less than 1500 cells/mm(3) and should not be given to patients with AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma if the baseline neutrophil count is less than 1000 cells/mm(3).

Monitor peripheral blood cell counts frequently.

Serious side effects of Taxol

Along with its needed effects, paclitaxel (the active ingredient contained in Taxol) 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:

More common side effects

  • black or tarry stools
  • blurred vision
  • burning, numbness, tingling, or painful sensations
  • confusion
  • cough or hoarseness with fever or chills
  • dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position
  • feeling of warmth
  • fever or chills
  • lower back or side pain
  • painful or difficult urination
  • pale skin
  • redness of the face, neck, arms, and occasionally, upper chest
  • shortness of breath
  • skin rash or itching
  • sore throat
  • sweating
  • troubled breathing with exertion
  • ulcers, sores, or white spots in the mouth
  • unsteadiness or awkwardness
  • unusual bleeding or bruising
  • unusual tiredness or weakness
  • weakness in the arms, hands, legs, or feet

Less common side effects

  • blood in the urine or stools
  • difficult or labored breathing
  • pinpoint red spots on the skin
  • shortness of breath (severe)
  • slow heartbeat
  • tightness in the chest
  • wheezing

Incidence not known

  • anxiety
  • blue lips, fingernails, or skin
  • difficult or troubled breathing
  • fainting
  • fast heartbeat
  • irregular, fast or slow, or shallow breathing
  • sudden shortness of breath

Other side effects of Taxol

Some side effects of paclitaxel 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 side effects

  • bleeding, blistering, burning, coldness, discoloration of the skin, 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
  • cracked lips
  • diarrhea
  • difficulty with swallowing
  • hair loss
  • nausea or vomiting
  • numbness, burning, or tingling in the hands or feet
  • pain in the joints or muscles, especially in the arms or legs
  • thinning of the hair

For healthcare professionals

Applies to paclitaxel: intravenous solution.

Cardiovascular adverse events

Dermatologic

Gastrointestinal

Hematologic

Hepatic

Hypersensitivity

Immunologic

Local

Musculoskeletal

Metabolic

Nervous system

Ocular

Oncologic

Other

Psychiatric

Respiratory

References

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

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

3. (2016) "Product Information. Paclitaxel (paclitaxel)." Sandoz Pharmaceuticals Corporation

Frequently asked questions

Further information

Taxol 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.