Docetor
Generic Name
Docetaxel
Manufacturer
e.g., General Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| docetor 20 mg injection | ৳ 4,000.00 | N/A |
| docetor 80 mg injection | ৳ 13,900.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Docetaxel is an antineoplastic agent (chemotherapy drug) used for the treatment of various cancers, including breast cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, prostate cancer, gastric adenocarcinoma, and head and neck cancer. It belongs to the taxane class of drugs.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Dosage varies greatly depending on the type of cancer, patient's body surface area (BSA), and specific treatment regimen. Typically 75-100 mg/m² administered intravenously over 1 hour every 3 weeks.
Elderly
Generally similar to adult dosage, but caution with comorbidities and reduced organ function.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment for mild to moderate renal impairment; severe impairment data limited.
How to Take
Administered by intravenous infusion over 1 hour, typically in a hospital setting. Premedication with corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone) is usually required to reduce hypersensitivity reactions and fluid retention.
Mechanism of Action
Docetaxel promotes the assembly of microtubules from tubulin dimers and inhibits their depolymerization, resulting in the stabilization of microtubules. This leads to the inhibition of cell division (mitosis) and subsequent cell death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid distribution phase (initial phase).
Excretion
Mainly excreted in feces (about 75%) and to a lesser extent in urine (about 6%).
Half life
Triphasic elimination with a terminal half-life of approximately 11-18 hours.
Absorption
Administered intravenously, so bioavailability is 100%.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) isoenzyme.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- History of severe hypersensitivity reactions to docetaxel or polysorbate 80
- Baseline neutrophil count < 1,500 cells/mm³
- Severe hepatic impairment
Drug Interactions
CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine, rifampicin)
May decrease docetaxel levels, reducing efficacy.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin, ritonavir)
May increase docetaxel levels, increasing toxicity.
Storage
Store unopened vials between 2°C to 25°C (36°F to 77°F). Protect from light. Do not freeze. Diluted solution should be used within 6 hours (if stored at room temperature) or 24 hours (if refrigerated).
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include bone marrow suppression, peripheral neurotoxicity, and mucositis. Management is supportive care, including blood transfusions and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) if necessary.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Docetaxel can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman; avoid during pregnancy. It is not known whether docetaxel is excreted in human milk; due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, discontinue nursing during treatment.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- History of severe hypersensitivity reactions to docetaxel or polysorbate 80
- Baseline neutrophil count < 1,500 cells/mm³
- Severe hepatic impairment
Drug Interactions
CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine, rifampicin)
May decrease docetaxel levels, reducing efficacy.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin, ritonavir)
May increase docetaxel levels, increasing toxicity.
Storage
Store unopened vials between 2°C to 25°C (36°F to 77°F). Protect from light. Do not freeze. Diluted solution should be used within 6 hours (if stored at room temperature) or 24 hours (if refrigerated).
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include bone marrow suppression, peripheral neurotoxicity, and mucositis. Management is supportive care, including blood transfusions and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) if necessary.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Docetaxel can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman; avoid during pregnancy. It is not known whether docetaxel is excreted in human milk; due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, discontinue nursing during treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years, consult specific product labeling.
Availability
Hospitals, oncology centers
Approval Status
Approved (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Off-patent (generics available)
Clinical Trials
Docetaxel has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials across various cancer types, demonstrating efficacy as a monotherapy and in combination regimens.
Lab Monitoring
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential before each dose (especially neutrophil count)
- Liver function tests (LFTs) before each dose
- Renal function tests periodically
- Monitoring for signs of fluid retention and hypersensitivity reactions
Doctor Notes
- Premedicate with oral corticosteroids to minimize hypersensitivity and fluid retention.
- Monitor CBC and LFTs closely before each cycle.
- Adjust dose in patients with hepatic impairment.
- Educate patients on symptoms of neutropenic fever and neuropathy.
Patient Guidelines
- Report any signs of infection (fever, chills) immediately.
- Report any numbness, tingling, or pain in hands/feet.
- Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent mucositis.
- Stay well-hydrated.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, contact your oncology team immediately for advice. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Docetaxel may cause fatigue, dizziness, or vision disturbances. Patients should be advised to avoid driving or operating machinery if they experience these symptoms.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid alcohol consumption.
- Maintain a balanced diet.
- Engage in light physical activity if tolerated.
- Avoid smoking.
- Practice good hand hygiene.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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