taxol

[dibs]

I would like to know the side effects of taxol?

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear Dibs,

Side effects of Taxol (paclitaxel) can include:  Decrease in blood counts particularly white blood cells (which can lead to infection), red blood cells (anemia), or platelets (which can leave a person more susceptible to bleeding).  This effect is related to the dose of the treatment, and these decreases usually reach the low-point or “nadir” 7-10 days following treatment.  At the time of the next dose of the medication the counts are checked to be sure they have returned to a safe level, before proceeding with the next dose.

Allergic reaction is another side effect that can happen in a small number of patients.  The first infusion is given slowly to at first to make sure a person is not having a reaction. If so many times taking a pre-medication (steroid) before the infusion takes care of the problem. In very rare cases a very severe reaction can occur and the decision might be not to give this particular chemotherapy.  

Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet.  You will be asked to report any symptoms and if you are noticing any difficulty with such tasks as buttoning clothes.  

Generalized achiness 2-5 days following treatment often occurs and your oncologist would recommend an analgesic that is appropriate for you if needed (a common recommendation is over-the-counter ibuprophen).  

Hair loss occurs in most patients, but is temporary and begins to grow back once Taxol is stopped.  

Other less common side effects are nausea and vomiting and are usually mild and well controlled with anti-nausea medications.  Diarrhea and mouth soreness also may occur and again are usually mild.

[Vero]

What about menopausal symptoms for pre-menaupausal women?  I had my first cycle of Taxol 5 days ago, and been experiencing major hot flashes, especially at night, and pain in my ovaries.

Is there a chance of becoming pregnant with a healthy child after Taxol?