Side effects of Docetaxel

Taxotere infusion contains the active ingredient docetaxel, which is an anti-cancer medicine known as a 'taxane'. Docetaxel is derived from a compound extracted from the needles of yew trees.

While ,Docetaxel has caused severe allergic reactions and swelling (fluid retention/edema) even with the use of preventative medications. This drug must not be used in patients who previously had an allergic reaction to it or other medications containing polysorbate 80. There is an increase risk of serious reactions (possibly fatal) in patients using docetaxel who have liver problems, who are getting higher doses, and in patients with non small cell lung cancer who have received certain other chemotherapy drugs known as "platinums". If you have a low white blood cell count or liver problems, notify your doctor before using docetaxel. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience swelling, dizziness or fainting, difficulty breathing, irregular heart beat, severe swelling of the abdomen, skin rash, easy bleeding or bruising, sores in the mouth or throat, or symptoms of infection, such as fever and sore throat.

So ,Docetaxel is contraindicated for use with patients with; a baseline neutrophil count less than 1500 cells/µL, a history of severe hypersensitivity reactions to docetaxel or polysorbate 80, severe liver impairment and pregnant or breast-feeding women.