TAXOL

Drug Name: TAXOL

TAXOL DESCRIPTION:
PACLITAXEL - INJECTION (pack-lih-TAX-el)

COMMON TAXOL BRAND NAME(S):
Taxol

TAXOL SIDE EFFECTS:
Nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, muscle aches, joint pain, diarrhea, mouth sores and reversible hair loss may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor promptly. Notify your doctor promptly if you develop: chest pain, abnormal heartbeat, breathing trouble, fever, unusual bruising or bleeding, tingling of the hands or feet. An allergic reaction to TAXOL is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE TAXOL:
TAXOL: TAXOL is given by continuous infusion into a vein over 24 hours. This is usually given once every three weeks, but the dose may be adjusted based on your progress. It is usually administered in a hospital setting where you can be monitored closely. Medication to prevent side effects is usually given before you receive paclitaxel.

TAXOL WARNING:
Serious, even fatal, allergic reactions have occurred with paclitaxel use. Patients who experience severe allergic reactions must never again use TAXOL. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, itching, breathing trouble, swelling or dizziness. TAXOL can lower the body's ability to fight an infection. Notify your doctor promptly if you develop signs of an infection such as fever, chills or persistent sore throat. Blood tests (e.g., white blood cell counts) are recommended during paclitaxel use. TAXOL must be given in an appropriate setting.

TAXOL USES:
Paclitaxel is used to treat various types of cancer.

TAXOL PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: heart disease, liver disease, bone marrow disorders, infections, any allergies you may have. Because TAXOL can lower your body's ability to fight an infection, avoid touching your eyes or inside your nose without first washing your hands. Use caution with sharp objects like safety razors or nail cutters and avoid activities such as contact sports in order to lower the chance of getting cut, bruised or injured. Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without consent of your doctor, and avoid contact with people who have recently received oral polio vaccine. Paclitaxel is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using TAXOL. It is not known if paclitaxel passes into breast milk. Breast- feeding is usually stopped while using anticancer drugs. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

TAXOL DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription medications you may use, especially of: ketoconazole, all anti-cancer medications. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

TAXOL OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include tingling of the hands or feet; severe mouth sores, or trouble breathing.

TAXOL NOTES:
Laboratory tests will be done periodically to monitor your progress.

MISSED TAXOL DOSE:
Discuss the dosing schedule with your doctor. Do not double the dose to catch up.

TAXOL STORAGE:
Store original vials in the refrigerator. The infusion solution can be stored at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Check the expiration date and discard any unused medication after that time. Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information on enrollment call Medic Alert(TM) at 1-800-854- 1166. In Canada call 1-800-668-1507.