Taxol is made by Bristol-Myers Squibb.
Generic Taxol is made by various manufacturers.
Taxol is part of a group of medications called taxanes. Taxanes stop cancer cells from growing and multiplying by interfering with certain structures in the cell.
While Taxol can kill both healthy and cancerous cells, it has a greater effect on cells that are multiplying rapidly. Generally, cancer cells multiply more rapidly than healthy cells and are, therefore, more affected by Taxol.
When and How to Take Taxol
General considerations for when and how to take Taxol include the following:
- Taxol is given through an IV. Each infusion is given over a one-hour period.
- You will need to take medications before each dose of Taxol in order to prevent fluid retention and allergic reactions. Usually, these medications include dexamethasone (Decadron®), diphenhydramine (Benadryl®), and cimetidine (Tagamet®) or other similar medications.
- Most people receive their Taxol injection at their healthcare provider's office, a hospital, or at an "infusion center."
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Taxol will not work as well if you stop taking it before your healthcare provider recommends.
Dosing Information for Taxol
The dose of Taxol that your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- The type of cancer being treated
- Your height and weight
- Other medications you may be taking
- Other medical conditions you may have.
As is always the case, do not adjust your Taxol dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
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