provider image
Welcome! You’re in GoodRx for healthcare professionals. Now, you’ll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare professionals.
Skip to main content
Docetaxel Coupon - Docetaxel 16ml of 160mg/16ml vial

docetaxel

Generic Taxotere
Used for Lung Cancer, Breast Cancer, Stomach Cancer, Skin Cancer, Prostate Cancer
Used for Lung Cancer, Breast Cancer, Stomach Cancer, Skin Cancer, Prostate Cancer

Docetaxel (Taxotere) is an anticancer treatment option used for many types of cancers. It can be used by itself or in combination with other anticancer medications. Docetaxel (Taxotere) is given as an infusion through the vein by a healthcare provider. It’s a recommended treatment option for certain cancers in adults, but can raise your risk for serious infections and cause nerve problems.

Last reviewed on August 11, 2022
basics-icon

What is Docetaxel (Taxotere)?

What is Docetaxel (Taxotere) used for?

  • Breast cancer

  • Non-small cell lung cancer

  • Prostate cancer

  • Stomach cancer

  • Head and neck cancer

How Docetaxel (Taxotere) works

Docetaxel (Taxotere) is a type of anticancer medication called a microtubule inhibitor. It interferes with the way cells divide and multiply, especially in fast-growing cells like cancer cells. When this happens, the cells are unable to grow and then die.

Are you looking for information on paclitaxel (Taxol) instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsTaxotere
Drug ClassAnticancer agent
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Docetaxel (Taxotere)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Hair loss (up to 76%)
  • Fatigue or weakness (up to 66%)
  • Nerve problems (up to 57%)
  • Fluid buildup or swelling (up to 56%)
  • Mouth sores or inflammation (up to 53%)
  • Skin reactions (e.g., redness, swelling; up to 48%)
  • Diarrhea (up to 42%)
  • Nausea (34-39%)
  • Nail changes (up to 31%)
  • Fever (up to 31%)
  • Muscle pain (up to 23%)
  • Vomiting (22%)
  • Allergic reaction (up to 21%)
^*Side effects listed for docetaxel (Taxotere) when taken alone. Side effects and percentages might differ when docetaxel (Taxotere) is taken with other medications. Please see source below for more details.^

Other Side Effects

  • Joint pain
  • Changes in taste
  • Breathing or lung problems
  • Infusion site reactions

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Serious infections: repeated fevers, chills, sweating, trouble breathing, cough, sore throat, severe diarrhea, stomach pain, vomiting, painful or frequent urination
  • Serious bleeds: bleeding or bruising that doesn’t stop or go away, large amount of bleeding, blood in the urine, throwing up blood, bloody or black and tarry stool
  • Severe skin reactions: painful blisters, skin wounds, peeling skin
  • Vision changes

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine 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:

More common

Black, tarry stools

bleeding gums

blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin

blood in the urine or stools

burning, tingling, numbness, or pain in the hands, arms, feet, or legs

chest pain

chills

cough

decrease in the amount of urine

diarrhea

difficulty in swallowing

difficulty moving

dizziness

dry eyes

fainting

fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat

fever

heartburn

hives, itching, skin rash

hoarseness

irritation

joint pain, stiffness, or swelling

lower back or side pain

muscle pain, cramps, or stiffness

noisy, rattling breathing

nosebleeds

pain or burning feeling in the throat

painful or difficult urination

pale skin

pinpoint red spots on the skin

red skin lesions, often with a purple center

red, irritated eyes

redness of the skin

sensation of pins and needles

severe lack or loss of strength

sore throat

sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or tongue or inside the mouth

stabbing pain

swelling of the eyelids, face, lips, hands, or feet

tightness in the chest

trouble breathing

troubled breathing at rest

troubled breathing with exertion

unusual bleeding or bruising

unusual tiredness or weakness

vomiting

weight gain

Less common

Bluish color of the skin

blurred vision

burning or itching of the eyes

changes in skin color

chest discomfort

confusion

constipation

discharge, excessive tearing

dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position

lightheadedness

nausea

pain or discomfort in the arms, jaw, back, or neck

pain, tenderness, or swelling of the foot or leg

rapid, shallow breathing

redness, pain, or swelling of the eye, eyelid, or inner lining of the eyelid

severe stomach pain

sweating

vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds

Rare

Dilated neck veins

extreme tiredness or weakness

fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse

headache

irregular breathing

nervousness

pounding in the ears

Incidence not known

Agitation

dark urine

decreased awareness or responsiveness

depression

drowsiness

dry mouth

general feeling of tiredness or weakness

hostility

increased thirst

indigestion

light-colored stools

loss of appetite

loss of consciousness

mood or mental changes

muscle spasms (tetany) or twitching seizures

nausea

rapid, shallow breathing

rectal bleeding

seizures

severe abdominal pain, cramping, or burning

severe sleepiness

stomach cramps, pain, or tenderness

stomach pain, continuing

tremor

unusual drowsiness, dullness, or feeling of sluggishness

vomiting of material that looks like coffee grounds, severe and continuing

yellow eyes or skin

Some side effects 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

Absent, missed, or irregular menstrual periods

bad, unusual or unpleasant (after)taste

change in sense of smell

change in taste

discoloration of the fingernails or toenails

dry skin hair loss or thinning of hair

stopping of menstrual bleeding

swelling or inflammation of the mouth

weight loss

Less common

Dry, red, hot, or irritated skin

Incidence not known

Hearing loss

pain and redness of the skin at the place of earlier radiation treatment

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Docetaxel (Taxotere)

thumbs-up

Pros

Commonly used anticancer treatment option for many kinds of cancers

Usually given less often (every 3 weeks) than other anticancer treatments

Lower rates of nausea and vomiting compared to other anticancer medications

thumbs-down

Cons

Raises your risk for infections, bleeding, or bruising

Can cause hair loss, which can be permanent in rare cases

Can cause nerve problems

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Docetaxel (Taxotere)

pharmacist
  • You’ll typically need to take a corticosteroid medication for 3 days, starting on the day before each docetaxel (Taxotere) injection. This is called premedication and helps lower your risk of certain reactions to the medication (e.g., fluid buildup, allergic and infusion reactions).

    • You’ll need to get labs done regularly during docetaxel (Taxotere) treatment. This is so your provider can monitor your blood cell counts and liver health. Docetaxel (Taxotere) can lower your blood cell counts and put you at risk for bleeding or developing infections. Liver problems can also put you at higher risk of the medication’s side effects. Follow the lab schedule your provider gives you. Tell your care team if you develop a fever.

      • Tell your provider if you have new or worsening numbness, tingling, burning, or pain in your arms, hands, legs, or feet. These are signs of nerve problems. You might need to receive a lower dose of docetaxel (Taxotere) or stop taking it for a while until your nerve problems improve (typically takes a few weeks or months).

        • Docetaxel (Taxotere) can cause or worsen swelling or fluid buildup in your body, most commonly in the feet, ankles, and legs. Let your provider know if the swelling is bothersome, or if you have sudden weight gain or shortness of breath. They can recommend some ways to help with the swelling.

          • Docetaxel (Taxotere) can cause hair loss. Talk to your provider if this is a concern and ask about ways to manage it.

            • Some formulations of docetaxel (Taxotere) contain a small amount of alcohol in the solution. After your infusions, be careful if you’re driving or doing tasks that require focus. Docetaxel (Taxotere) might affect your ability to do these activities safely.

              • If you’re a woman who can get pregnant, use birth control while receiving docetaxel (Taxotere) and for 6 months after your last dose. This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby.

                • If you’re a man with female partners who can get pregnant, use birth control measures, such as condoms, while you’re receiving docetaxel (Taxotere) and for 3 months after your last dose. It’s possible for docetaxel (Taxotere) to cause harm to the unborn baby of your female partners if you’re taking this medication.

                  • Certain medications, such as ketoconazole and rifampin (Rifadin), can interact with docetaxel (Taxotere) and change the levels of docetaxel (Taxotere) in your body. This can affect how well docetaxel (Taxotere) works to treat your cancer or raise your risk of side effects. Tell your provider and pharmacist about all the medications you take, including supplements and over-the-counter medications. Before starting any new medications, make sure your provider knows you're receiving docetaxel (Taxotere).

                    faqs

                    Frequently asked questions about Docetaxel (Taxotere)

                    Why do I need to take a corticosteroid medication before receiving docetaxel (Taxotere)?
                    Corticosteroid medications, like dexamethasone, can help prevent certain reactions that docetaxel (Taxotere) might cause. These reactions include fluid buildup (edema), allergic reactions, and skin reactions. They can also make the side effects less severe if you do experience them. Usually, you’ll take this oral corticosteroid for 3 days, starting on the day before your docetaxel (Taxotere) infusion.
                    How can I lower my chances of developing an infection while receiving docetaxel (Taxotere)?
                    Docetaxel (Taxotere) will lower your blood cell counts and make you more likely to develop an infection. When chemotherapy weakens your immune system, it’s also harder for your body to fight off an infection, which can be a serious problem. There are many ways you can lower your chances of developing an infection. Wash your hands often, and avoid crowded places and people who are sick. To avoid food-borne illnesses, it’s recommended to wash raw fruits and vegetables before eating, and cook foods thoroughly.
                    Is docetaxel (Taxotere) safe if I have liver problems?
                    Let your provider know if you have problems with your liver, because you’re at higher risk of side effects from docetaxel (Taxotere) and will need to be monitored more closely. With liver problems, your body might have a harder time getting rid of this medication. This causes higher levels of docetaxel (Taxotere) in your body and can raise your risk for more side effects. Depending on how severe your liver problems are, you might need to take the medication at a lower dose, or you might not be able to receive docetaxel (Taxotere) entirely.
                    Is docetaxel (Taxotere) safe in pregnancy?
                    Docetaxel (Taxotere) isn’t recommended during pregnancy. It can cause harm to your unborn baby and shouldn’t be used in pregnancy, unless your provider thinks the benefit is greater than the risk for both you and your unborn baby. Let your provider know right away if you or your partner becomes pregnant while receiving docetaxel (Taxotere).
                    Is docetaxel (Taxotere) safe while breastfeeding?
                    It isn’t recommended to breastfeed while receiving docetaxel (Taxotere). We don’t know if the medication can pass into breast milk, but there’s a risk of serious harm to nursing infants if it does. Because of this risk, you shouldn’t breastfeed during docetaxel (Taxotere) treatment and for 1 week after your last dose. Talk with your provider if you have any questions about breastfeeding or other ways to feed your baby while receiving docetaxel (Taxotere).
                    GoodRxEducationalIcon

                    How to save using GoodRx

                    Compare Prices
                    1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
                    Select your free coupon
                    2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
                    Show coupon to your pharmacist
                    3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
                    Get free couponLearn more
                    warings-icon

                    What are the risks and warnings for Docetaxel (Taxotere)?

                    Docetaxel (Taxotere) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                    risk-warning

                    Treatment-related deaths

                    In clinical studies, treatment-related deaths occurred in a small number of people receiving docetaxel (Taxotere). These people either received higher doses of the medication (100 mg/m^2^), had liver problems, or were treated with docetaxel (Taxotere) for non-small cell lung cancer after previously receiving a platinum-based chemotherapy regimen. Talk to your provider if you’re concerned about this risk.

                    risk-warning

                    Higher risk of side effects in people with liver problems

                    If you have liver problems, your body might have a harder time getting rid of docetaxel (Taxotere). This can cause higher levels of the medication in your body, which can raise your risk for serious side effects, such as infections, bleeding or bruising, mouth sores, skin reactions, and even death. Because of this risk, your provider will do blood work to check your liver health before you start and during treatment with docetaxel (Taxotere).

                    risk-warning

                    Low blood cell counts, leading to infection and bleeding risk

                    Docetaxel (Taxotere) can cause your white blood cell and platelet counts to drop. When the number of these cells are lower than normal, you’re at risk of developing infections and bleeding or bruising. Your provider will closely monitor your blood counts through routine lab work while you’re receiving docetaxel (Taxotere). If your blood counts are low, you might have to skip or delay your infusion. Let your provider know as soon as possible if you experience fevers, chills, or bleeding and bruising that doesn’t stop or go away, because you might need to stop this medication.

                    risk-warning

                    Allergic reactions

                    • Risk factors: Previous allergic reaction to paclitaxel (Taxol)

                      Docetaxel (Taxotere) can cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. They can happen at any time, but most commonly occur with the first and second infusions. To lower this risk, you’ll be given a corticosteroid medication before your docetaxel (Taxotere) injections. If you’ve had an allergic reaction to a similar anticancer medication called paclitaxel (Taxol) before, let your provider know so they can monitor you more closely when starting docetaxel (Taxotere). Contact your provider or get medical help right away if you experience any throat tightness, trouble breathing, fever, chills, hives, flushing, chest pain, fast heartbeat, or dizziness.

                      risk-warning

                      Fluid buildup

                      • Risk factors: Conditions that can cause fluid buildup in the body (e.g., heart failure, kidney disease)

                        Docetaxel (Taxotere) can cause swelling or fluid buildup in your body, usually in the arms or legs. This can be worse if you have other conditions that make it hard for your body to get rid of fluids, such as congestive heart failure or kidney disease. To lower this risk, you’ll be given a corticosteroid medication before your docetaxel (Taxotere) injections. If fluid buildup occurs, it will generally improve after a few weeks to months after your last infusion. During treatment, let your provider know if you have more swelling than normal, sudden weight gain, or have shortness of breath.

                        risk-warning

                        Risk for developing other cancers

                        While rare, some people treated with regimens containing docetaxel (Taxotere) have developed secondary cancers like lymphoma and blood cancers. This is when a cancer develops while you’re taking medication for a condition that you already have. The development of a secondary cancer can happen months or years after docetaxel (Taxotere) treatment. Talk to your provider if you’re concerned about your risk for other cancers.

                        risk-warning

                        Eye problems

                        Docetaxel (Taxotere) can cause fluid buildup in the eye, which can lead to vision problems. This can be serious, so if you notice any changes in vision, let your provider know right away so they can check your eyes.

                        risk-warning

                        Harm to unborn baby

                        Based on animal studies, docetaxel (Taxotere) can harm an unborn baby or raise the risk for miscarriage (pregnancy loss). Because of these risks, if you’re a woman who can get pregnant, you’ll likely need to take a pregnancy test to make sure you’re not pregnant before you start the medication. In addition, regardless of your sex, if you or your partner can get pregnant, use birth control during and after treatment with docetaxel (Taxotere). Let your provider know right away if you or your partner become pregnant during this time.

                        risk-warning

                        High uric acid and electrolyte imbalances

                        • Risk factors: Kidney problems | Bulky or large tumors | High uric acid levels

                          Treatment with docetaxel (Taxotere) can cause a serious reaction called tumor lysis syndrome (TLS). TLS is when many cancer cells die quickly and break down in your body. This causes a rapid release of the cells’ contents, like uric acid, potassium, and phosphorus, into your blood. High levels of uric acid and electrolytes in your body can cause serious kidney damage and abnormal heart rhythms.

                          You’re at higher risk if you have a large number of cancer cells in your body, larger tumors, or kidney problems. Your provider will monitor you more closely if you have a higher risk for TLS. You also might need to take preventative medication to lower uric acid levels and receive extra hydration with fluids. Tell your provider right away if you’re urinating less than usual or have dark urine, muscle cramps, or a racing heartbeat.

                          dosage

                          Docetaxel (Taxotere) dosage forms

                          Typical dosing for Docetaxel (Taxotere)

                          This medication is an injection that’s given into a vein (intravenous, IV) by a healthcare provider. Your provider will calculate your dose of docetaxel (Taxotere) using your body surface area (BSA, in units of m2), which takes into account your body weight and height.

                          Docetaxel (Taxotere) can be given by itself or in combination with other anticancer medications, depending on the type of cancer you have and your treatment regimen.

                          • Breast cancer: The typical dose is 60 mg/m2 to 100 mg/m2 every 3 weeks per cycle.

                          • Prostate, stomach, head and neck, or non-small cell lung cancer: The typical dose is 75 mg/m2 every 3 weeks per cycle.

                          interactions

                          Interactions between Docetaxel (Taxotere) and other drugs

                          Docetaxel (Taxotere) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Docetaxel (Taxotere). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                          Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are receiving this medicine, it is especially important that your healthcare professional know if you are taking any of the medicines listed below. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.

                          Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                          Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                          Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                          contraindications-icon

                          Docetaxel (Taxotere) contraindications

                          Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Docetaxel (Taxotere) will not be safe for you to take.
                          latest news

                          What is the latest news about Docetaxel (Taxotere)?

                          images

                          Docetaxel (Taxotere) images

                          yellow - Docetaxel 160mg / 16mL Solution for Injection
                          This medicine is Yellow Vial.yellow - Docetaxel 160mg / 16mL Solution for Injection
                          yellow - Docetaxel 160mg / 16mL Solution for Injection
                          This medicine is Yellow Vial.yellow - Docetaxel 160mg / 16mL Solution for Injection
                          yellow - Docetaxel 160mg / 16mL Solution for Injection
                          This medicine is Yellow Vial.yellow - Docetaxel 160mg / 16mL Solution for Injection

                          Get savings updates for Docetaxel (Taxotere)

                          Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Docetaxel (Taxotere) and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

                          By signing up, I agree to GoodRx's Terms and Privacy Policy, and to receive marketing messages from GoodRx.

                          Browse medications

                          View All

                          Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.