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Docetaxel
Overview
Active ingredients
Source: NDC Directory| Ingredient | Strength | RxCUI | Monograph |
|---|---|---|---|
| Docetaxel | 1 g/g | 1860619 | View |
| Docetaxel | 10 mg/mL | 1860619 | View |
| Docetaxel | 160 mg/8mL | 1860619 | View |
| Docetaxel | 20 mg/mL | 1860619 | View |
| Docetaxel | 80 mg/4mL | 1860619 | View |
| Docetaxel Anhydrous | 10 mg/mL | 1860480 | View |
| Docetaxel Anhydrous | 160 mg/8mL | 1860480 | View |
| Docetaxel Anhydrous | 20 mg/mL | 1860480 | View |
| Docetaxel Anhydrous | 80 mg/4mL | 1860480 | View |
Forms, strengths and routes
Source: NDC DirectoryPharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.
Pharmacologic class
Source: NDC Directory| Class | Type | Browse |
|---|---|---|
| Microtubule Inhibition [PE] | PE | All 18 members |
| Microtubule Inhibitor [EPC] | EPC | All 13 members |
Regulatory status
Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory| Product | Trade name | Form | Strength | Ingredient | Status | TE | Flags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 022234-001 | DOCETAXEL | INJECTABLE | DOCETAXEL | Prescription | AP | RLD RS | |
| 022234-002 | DOCETAXEL | INJECTABLE | DOCETAXEL | Prescription | AP | RLD RS | |
| 022234-003 | DOCETAXEL | INJECTABLE | DOCETAXEL | Prescription | AP | RLD RS | |
| 022234-004 | DOCETAXEL | INJECTABLE | DOCETAXEL | Prescription | — | RLD | |
| 022234-005 | DOCETAXEL | INJECTABLE | DOCETAXEL | Prescription | — | RLD | |
| 022234-006 | DOCETAXEL | INJECTABLE | DOCETAXEL | Discontinued | — | RLD | |
| 022234-007 | DOCETAXEL | INJECTABLE | DOCETAXEL | Prescription | — | RLD |
Therapeutic equivalence
Source: Orange BookWhat this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated (parenteral aqueous solutions)
Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.
Approval history
Source: Drugs@FDA| Type | No. | Action | Status | Date | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplement | 22 | Labeling | Approved | May 15, 2023 | Standard |
| Supplement | 18 | Labeling | Approved | November 24, 2020 | Standard |
| Supplement | 15 | Labeling | Approved | October 11, 2019 | Standard |
| Supplement | 13 | Labeling | Approved | October 11, 2019 | Standard |
| Supplement | 12 | Labeling | Approved | October 11, 2019 | Standard |
| Supplement | 11 | Labeling | Approved | September 24, 2018 | Standard |
| Supplement | 10 | Labeling | Approved | August 2, 2018 | Standard |
| Supplement | 8 | Labeling | Approved | September 27, 2017 | Standard |
| Supplement | 5 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | January 25, 2017 | Standard |
| Supplement | 4 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | June 24, 2016 | Standard |
| Supplement | 3 | Efficacy | Approved | July 10, 2014 | Standard |
| Supplement | 2 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | January 23, 2014 | Standard |
| Original application | 1 | Type 5 - New Formulation or New Manufacturer | Approved | March 8, 2011 | Standard |
Review documents
- 0 · Supplement · May 16, 2023
- 0 · Supplement · May 16, 2023
- 0 · Supplement · November 27, 2020
- 0 · Supplement · November 25, 2020
- 0 · Supplement · October 15, 2019
- 0 · Supplement · October 15, 2019
- 0 · Supplement · October 15, 2019
- 0 · Supplement · October 15, 2019
- 0 · Supplement · October 15, 2019
- 0 · Supplement · October 15, 2019
- 0 · Supplement · October 1, 2018
- 0 · Supplement · September 26, 2018
- 0 · Supplement · August 3, 2018
- 0 · Supplement · August 3, 2018
- 0 · Supplement · September 29, 2017
- 0 · Supplement · September 28, 2017
- 0 · Supplement · September 6, 2017
- 0 · Supplement · July 11, 2014
- 0 · Supplement · July 11, 2014
- 0 · Original application · December 8, 2011
- 0 · Original application · December 8, 2011
- 0 · Original application · March 11, 2011
- 0 · Original application · March 11, 2011
- 0 · Original application · August 13, 2008
Prescribing information
Source: openFDA Drug LabelingReproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20250131). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.
Boxed Warning
openFDA Drug LabelingWARNING: TOXIC DEATHS, HEPATOTOXICITY, NEUTROPENIA, HYPERSENSITIVITY REACTIONS, and FLUID RETENTION ONE-VIAL FORMULATION Treatment-related mortality associated with docetaxel injection is increased in patients with abnormal liver function, in patients receiving higher doses, and in patients with non-small cell lung carcinoma and a history of prior treatment with platinum-based chemotherapy who receive docetaxel injection as a single agent at a dose of 100 mg/m 2 [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )]. Avoid the use of docetaxel injection in patients with bilirubin > upper limit of normal (ULN), or to patients with AST and/or ALT >1.5 x ULN concomitant with alkaline phosphatase >2.5 x ULN. Patients with elevations of bilirubin or abnormalities of transaminase concurrent with alkaline phosphatase are at increased risk for the development of severe neutropenia, febrile neutropenia, infections, severe thrombocytopenia, severe stomatitis, severe skin toxicity, and toxic death. Patients with isolated elevations of transaminase >1.5 x ULN also had a higher rate of febrile neutropenia. Measure bilirubin, AST or ALT, and alkaline phosphatase prior to each cycle of docetaxel injection [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )]. Do not administer docetaxel injection to patients with neutrophil counts of ULN, or if AST and/or ALT > 1.5 x ULN concomitant with alkaline phosphatase > 2.5 x ULN. LFT elevations increase risk of severe or life-threatening complications. Obtain LFTs before each treatment cycle ( 5.2 ) Do not administer docetaxel injection to patients with neutrophil counts < 1500 cells/mm 3 . Obtain frequent blood counts to monitor for neutropenia ( 4 , 5.3) Severe hypersensitivity, including very rare fatal anaphylaxis, has been reported in patients who received dexamethasone premedication. Severe reactions require immediate discontinuation of docetaxel injection and administration of appropriate therapy ( 5.5 ) Contraindicated if history of severe hypersensitivity reactions to docetaxel injection or to drugs formulated with polysorbate 80 ( 4 ) Severe fluid retention may occur despite dexamethasone ( 5.6 )
Recent Major Changes
openFDA Drug LabelingWarnings and Precautions ( 5.7 , 5.12 ) 06/2019 Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 ) 12/2019 Warnings and Precautions ( 5.14 ) 05/2020
Indications and Usage
openFDA Drug Labeling1. INDICATIONS AND USAGE Docetaxel Injection is a microtubule inhibitor indicated for: • Breast Cancer (BC): single agent for locally advanced or metastatic BC after chemotherapy failure; and with doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide as adjuvant treatment of operable node-positive BC ( 1.1 ) • Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): single agent for locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC after platinum therapy failure; and with cisplatin for unresectable, locally advanced or metastatic untreated NSCLC ( 1.2 ) • Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer (CRPC): with prednisone in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer ( 1.3 ) • Gastric Adenocarcinoma (GC): with cisplatin and fluorouracil for untreated, advanced GC, including the gastroesophageal junction ( 1.4 ) • Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck (SCCHN): with cisplatin and fluorouracil for induction treatment of locally advanced SCCHN ( 1.5 ) 1.1 Breast Cancer Docetaxel Injection is indicated for the treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer after failure of prior chemotherapy. Docetaxel Injection in combination with doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide is indicated for the adjuvant treatment of patients with operable node-positive breast cancer. 1.2 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Docetaxel Injection as a single agent is indicated for the treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer after failure of prior platinum-based chemotherapy. Docetaxel Injection in combination with cisplatin is indicated for the treatment of patients with unresectable, locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer who have not previously received chemotherapy for this condition. 1.3 Prostate Cancer Docetaxel Injection in combination with prednisone is indicated for the treatment of patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. 1.4 Gastric Adenocarcinoma Docetaxel Injection in combination with cisplatin and fluorouracil is indicated for the treatment of patients with advanced gastric adenocarcinoma, including adenocarcinoma of the gastroesophageal junction, who have not received prior chemotherapy for advanced disease. 1.5 Head and Neck Cancer Docetaxel Injection in combination with cisplatin and fluorouracil is indicated for the induction treatment of patients with locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN).
Dosage and Administration
openFDA Drug Labeling2. DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION For all indications, toxicities may warrant dosage adjustments [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.7 )]. Administer in a facility equipped to manage possible complications (e.g., anaphylaxis). Administer in a facility equipped to manage possible complications (e.g., anaphylaxis). Administer intravenously (IV) over 1 hour every 3 weeks. PVC equipment is not recommended. • BC locally advanced or metastatic: 60 mg/m 2 to 100 mg/m 2 single agent ( 2.1 ) • BC adjuvant: 75 mg/m 2 administered 1 hour after doxorubicin 50 mg/m 2 and cyclophosphamide 500 mg/m 2 every 3 weeks for 6 cycles ( 2.1 ) • NSCLC: after platinum therapy failure: 75 mg/m 2 single agent ( 2.2 ) • NSCLC: chemotherapy-naive: 75 mg/m 2 followed by cisplatin 75 mg/m 2 ( 2.2 ) • CRPC: 75 mg/m 2 with 5 mg prednisone twice a day continuously ( 2.3 ) • GC: 75 mg/m 2 followed by cisplatin 75 mg/m 2 (both on day 1 only) followed by fluorouracil 750 mg/m 2 per day as a 24-hr IV (days 1-5), starting at end of cisplatin infusion ( 2.4 ) • SCCHN: 75 mg/m 2 followed by cisplatin 75 mg/m 2 IV (day 1), followed by fluorouracil 750 mg/m 2 per day as a 24-hr IV (days 1-5), starting at end of cisplatin infusion; for 4 cycles ( 2.5 ) • SCCHN: 75 mg/m 2 followed by cisplatin 100 mg/m 2 IV (day 1), followed by fluorouracil 1000 mg/m 2 per day as a 24-hr IV (days 1-4); for 3 cycles ( 2.5 ) For all patients: • Pre-medicate with oral corticosteroids ( 2.6 ) • Adjust dose as needed ( 2.7 ) 2.1 Breast Cancer • For locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer after failure of prior chemotherapy, the recommended dose of Docetaxel Injection is 60 mg/m 2 to 100 mg/m 2 administered intravenously over 1 hour every 3 weeks. • For the adjuvant treatment of operable node-positive breast cancer, the recommended Docetaxel Injection dose is 75 mg/m 2 administered 1 hour after doxorubicin 50 mg/m 2 and cyclophosphamide 500 mg/m 2 every 3 weeks for 6 courses. Prophylactic G-CSF may be used to mitigate the risk of hematological toxicities [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.7 )]. 2.2 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer • For treatment after failure of prior platinum-based chemotherapy, docetaxel was evaluated as monotherapy, and the recommended dose is 75 mg/m 2 administered intravenously over 1 hour every 3 weeks. A dose of 100 mg/m 2 in patients previously treated with chemotherapy was associated with increased hematologic toxicity, infection, and treatment-related mortality in randomized, controlled trials [see Boxed Warning, Dosage and Administration ( 2.7 ), Warnings and Precautions ( 5 ), Clinical Studies ( 14 )]. • For chemotherapy-naive patients, docetaxel was evaluated in combination with cisplatin. The recommended dose of Docetaxel Injection is 75 mg/m 2 administered intravenously over 1 hour immediately followed by cisplatin 75 mg/m 2 over 30-60 minutes every 3 weeks [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.7 )] . 2.3 Prostate Cancer For metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer, the recommended dose of Docetaxel Injection is 75 mg/m 2 every 3 weeks as a 1 hour intravenous infusion. Prednisone 5 mg orally twice daily is administered continuously [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.7 )]. 2.4 Gastric Adenocarcinoma For gastric adenocarcinoma, the recommended dose of Docetaxel Injection is 75 mg/m 2 as a 1-hour intravenous infusion, followed by cisplatin 75 mg/m 2 , as a 1- to 3- hour intravenous infusion (both on day 1 only), followed by fluorouracil 750 mg/m 2 per day given as a 24-hour continuous intravenous infusion for 5 days, starting at the end of the cisplatin infusion. Treatment is repeated every three weeks. Patients must receive premedication with antiemetics and appropriate hydration for cisplatin administration [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.7 )]. 2.5 Head and Neck Cancer Patients must receive premedication with antiemetics, and appropriate hydration (prior to and after cisplatin administration). Prophylaxis for neutropenic infections should be administered. All pa …
Dosage Forms and Strengths
openFDA Drug Labeling3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS One-vial formulation Docetaxel Injection USP Docetaxel 20 mg/mL Docetaxel Injection USP, 20 mg/1 mL single-dose vial: 20 mg docetaxel and 3 mg citric acid anhydrous in 1 mL in 50/50 (v/v) ratio polysorbate 80/dehydrated alcohol. Docetaxel 80 mg/4 mL Docetaxel Injection USP, 80 mg/4 mL single-dose vial: 80 mg docetaxel and 12 mg citric acid anhydrous in 4 mL in 50/50 (v/v) ratio polysorbate 80/dehydrated alcohol. Docetaxel 160 mg/8 mL Docetaxel Injection USP, 160 mg/8 mL single-dose vial: 160 mg docetaxel and 24 mg citric acid anhydrous in 8 mL in 50/50 (v/v) ratio polysorbate 80/dehydrated alcohol. One-vial formulation docetaxel injection: Single-dose vials, 20 mg/mL, 80 mg/4 mL, and 160 mg/8 mL ( 3 )
Contraindications
openFDA Drug Labeling4. CONTRAINDICATIONS Docetaxel Injection is contraindicated in patients with: • neutrophil counts of <1500 cells/mm 3 [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ) ]. • a history of severe hypersensitivity reactions to docetaxel or to other drugs formulated with polysorbate 80. Severe reactions, including anaphylaxis, have occurred [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 ) ]. • Hypersensitivity to docetaxel or polysorbate 80 ( 4 ) • Neutrophil counts of < 1500 cells/mm 3 ( 4 )
Warnings and Cautions
openFDA Drug Labeling5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Second primary malignancies: In patients treated with docetaxel injection-containing regimens, monitor for delayed AML, MDS, NHL, and renal cancer. ( 5.7 ) Cutaneous reactions: Reactions including erythema of the extremities with edema followed by desquamation may occur. Severe cutaneous adverse reactions have been reported. Severe skin toxicity may require dose adjustment or permanent treatment discontinuation. ( 5.8 ) Neurologic reactions: Reactions including paresthesia, dysesthesia, and pain may occur. Severe neurosensory symptoms require dose adjustment or discontinuation if persistent. ( 5.9 ) Eye disorders: Cystoid macular edema (CME) has been reported and requires treatment discontinuation. ( 5.10 ) Asthenia: Severe asthenia may occur and may require treatment discontinuation. ( 5.11 ) Embryo-fetal toxicity: Can cause fetal harm. Advise patients of the potential risk to a fetus and to use effective contraception. ( 5.12 , 8.1 , 8.3 ) Alcohol content: The alcohol content in a dose of docetaxel injection may affect the central nervous system. This may include impairment of a patient’s ability to drive or use machines immediately after infusion. ( 5.13 ) Tumor lysis syndrome: Tumor lysis syndrome has been reported. Patients at risk should be well hydrated and closely monitored during treatment. ( 5.14 ) 5.1 Toxic Deaths Breast Cancer Docetaxel administered at 100 mg/m 2 was associated with deaths considered possibly or probably related to treatment in 2.0% (19/965) of metastatic breast cancer patients, both previously treated and untreated, with normal baseline liver function and in 11.5% (7/61) of patients with various tumor types who had abnormal baseline liver function (AST and/or ALT >1.5 times ULN together with AP >2.5 times ULN). Among patients dosed at 60 mg/m 2 , mortality related to treatment occurred in 0.6% (3/481) of patients with normal liver function, and in 3 of 7 patients with abnormal liver function. Approximately half of these deaths occurred during the first cycle. Sepsis accounted for the majority of the deaths. Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Docetaxel administered at a dose of 100 mg/m 2 in patients with locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer who had a history of prior platinum-based chemotherapy was associated with increased treatment-related mortality (14% and 5% in two randomized, controlled studies). There were 2.8% treatment-related deaths among the 176 patients treated at the 75 mg/m 2 dose in the randomized trials. Among patients who experienced treatment-related mortality at the 75 mg/m 2 dose level, 3 of 5 patients had an ECOG PS of 2 at study entry [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) , Clinical Studies (14) ] . 5.2 Hepatic Impairment Patients with elevations of bilirubin or abnormalities of transaminase concurrent with alkaline phosphatase are at increased risk for the development of severe neutropenia, febrile neutropenia, infections, severe thrombocytopenia, severe stomatitis, severe skin toxicity, and toxic death. Avoid docetaxel injection in patients with bilirubin > upper limit of normal (ULN), or to patients with AST and/or ALT >1.5 × ULN concomitant with alkaline phosphatase >2.5 × ULN [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . For patients with isolated elevations of transaminase >1.5 × ULN, consider docetaxel injection dose modifications [see Dosage and Administration (2.7) ] . Measure bilirubin, AST or ALT, and alkaline phosphatase prior to each cycle of docetaxel injection therapy. 5.3 Hematologic Effects Perform frequent peripheral blood cell counts on all patients receiving docetaxel injection. Do not retreat patients with subsequent cycles of docetaxel injection until neutrophils recover to a level >1500 cells/mm 3 [see Contraindications (4) ] . Avoid retreating patients until platelets recover to a level >100,000 cells/mm 3 . A 25% reduction in the dose of docetaxel injection is recommended during subsequent cycles following severe neutr …
Adverse Reactions
openFDA Drug Labeling6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The most serious adverse reactions from docetaxel are: • Toxic Deaths [ see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] • Hepatic Impairment [ see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] • Hematologic Effects [ see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] • Enterocolitis and Neutropenic Colitis [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] • Hypersensitivity Reactions [ see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] • Fluid Retention [ see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] • Second Primary Malignancies [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] • Cutaneous Reactions [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] • Neurologic Reactions [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] • Eye Disorders [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] • Asthenia [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) ] • Alcohol Content [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.13) ] The most common adverse reactions across all docetaxel indications are infections, neutropenia, anemia, febrile neutropenia, hypersensitivity, thrombocytopenia, neuropathy, dysgeusia, dyspnea, constipation, anorexia, nail disorders, fluid retention, asthenia, pain, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, mucositis, alopecia, skin reactions, and myalgia. Incidence varies depending on the indication. Adverse reactions are described according to indication. Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Responding patients may not experience an improvement in performance status on therapy and may experience worsening. The relationship between changes in performance status, response to therapy, and treatment-related side effects has not been established. Most common adverse reactions across all docetaxel indications are infections, neutropenia, anemia, febrile neutropenia, hypersensitivity, thrombocytopenia, neuropathy, dysgeusia, dyspnea, constipation, anorexia, nail disorders, fluid retention, asthenia, pain, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, mucositis, alopecia, skin reactions, and myalgia. ( 6 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Hospira, Inc. at 1-800-441-4100 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Breast Cancer Monotherapy with Docetaxel for Locally Advanced or Metastatic Breast Cancer after Failure of Prior Chemotherapy Docetaxel 100 mg/m 2 : Adverse drug reactions occurring in at least 5% of patients are compared for three populations who received docetaxel administered at 100 mg/m 2 as a 1-hour infusion every 3 weeks: 2045 patients with various tumor types and normal baseline liver function tests; the subset of 965 patients with locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer, both previously treated and untreated with chemotherapy, who had normal baseline liver function tests; and an additional 61 patients with various tumor types who had abnormal liver function tests at baseline. These reactions were described using COSTART terms and were considered possibly or probably related to docetaxel. At least 95% of these patients did not receive hematopoietic support. The safety profile is generally similar in patients receiving docetaxel for the treatment of breast cancer and in patients with other tumor types (see Table 3). Table 3: Summary of Adverse Reactions in Patients Receiving Docetaxel at 100 mg/m 2 Adverse Reaction All Tumor Types Normal LFTs Normal Baseline LFTs: Transaminases ≤1.5 times ULN or alkaline phosphatase ≤2.5 times ULN or isolated elevations of transaminases or alkaline phosphatase up to 5 times ULN n=2045 % All Tumor Types Elevated LFTs Elevated Baseline LFTs: AST and/or ALT >1.5 times ULN concurrent with alkaline phosphatase >2.5 times ULN n=61 % Breast Cancer Normal LFTs n=965 % Hematologic Neutropenia 38°C with intravenous antibiotics and/or hospitalization 11 26 12 Septic Death 2 5 …
Drug Interactions
openFDA Drug Labeling7. DRUG INTERACTIONS Docetaxel is a CYP3A4 substrate. In vitro studies have shown that the metabolism of docetaxel may be modified by the concomitant administration of compounds that induce, inhibit, or are metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4. In vivo studies showed that the exposure of docetaxel increased 2.2-fold when it was co-administered with ketoconazole, a potent inhibitor of CYP3A4. Protease inhibitors, particularly ritonavir, may increase the exposure of docetaxel. Concomitant use of Docetaxel Injection and drugs that inhibit CYP3A4 may increase exposure to docetaxel and should be avoided. In patients receiving treatment with Docetaxel Injection, close monitoring for toxicity and a Docetaxel Injection dose reduction could be considered if systemic administration of a potent CYP3A4 inhibitor cannot be avoided [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.7 ), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )]. • Cytochrome P450 3A4 inducers, inhibitors, or substrates: May alter docetaxel metabolism. ( 7 )
Use in Specific Populations
openFDA Drug Labeling8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS • Lactation: Advise women not to breastfeed. ( 8.2 ) • Females and Males of Reproductive Potential: Verify pregnancy status of females prior to initiation of Docetaxel Injection. ( 8.3 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Based on findings in animal reproduction studies and its mechanism of action, Docetaxel Injection can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman [ see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1) ]. Available data from case reports in the literature and pharmacovigilance with docetaxel use in pregnant women are not sufficient to inform the drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Docetaxel Injection contains alcohol which can interfere with neurobehavioral development ( see Clinical Considerations ). In animal reproductive studies, administration of docetaxel to pregnant rats and rabbits during the period of organogenesis caused an increased incidence of embryo-fetal toxicities, including intrauterine mortality, at doses as low as 0.02 and 0.003 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area, respectively ( see Data ). Advise pregnant women and females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to a fetus. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, miscarriage, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Docetaxel Injection contains alcohol [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.13) ]. Published studies have demonstrated that alcohol is associated with fetal harm including central nervous system abnormalities, behavioral disorders, and impaired intellectual development. Data Animal data Intravenous administration of ≥0.3 and 0.03 mg/kg/day docetaxel to pregnant rats and rabbits, respectively, during the period of organogenesis caused an increased incidence of intrauterine mortality, resorptions, reduced fetal weights, and fetal ossification delays. Maternal toxicity was also observed at these doses, which were approximately 0.02 and 0.003 times the daily maximum recommended human dose based on body surface area, respectively. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary There is no information regarding the presence of docetaxel in human milk, or on its effects on milk production or the breastfed child. No lactation studies in animals have been conducted. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in a breastfed child, advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with Docetaxel Injection and for 1 week after the last dose. 8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential Based on findings in animals, Docetaxel Injection can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ]. Pregnancy Testing Verify pregnancy status in females of reproductive potential prior to initiating Docetaxel Injection. Contraception Females Based on genetic toxicity findings, advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment and for 2 months after the last dose of Docetaxel Injection. Males Based on genetic toxicity findings, advise male patients with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose of Docetaxel Injection. Infertility Based on findings in animal studies, Docetaxel Injection may impair fertility in males of reproductive potential [ see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1) ] . 8.4 Pediatric Use The alcohol content of Docetaxel Injection should be taken into account when given to pediatric patients [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.13) ]. The efficacy of docetaxel in pediatric patients as monotherapy or in combination has not been established. The overall safety profile of docetaxel …
Mechanism of Action
openFDA Drug Labeling12.1 Mechanism of Action Docetaxel is an antineoplastic agent that acts by disrupting the microtubular network in cells that is essential for mitotic and interphase cellular functions. Docetaxel binds to free tubulin and promotes the assembly of tubulin into stable microtubules while simultaneously inhibiting their disassembly. This leads to the production of microtubule bundles without normal function and to the stabilization of microtubules, which results in the inhibition of mitosis in cells. Docetaxel’s binding to microtubules does not alter the number of protofilaments in the bound microtubules, a feature which differs from most spindle poisons currently in clinical use.
Description
openFDA Drug Labeling11 DESCRIPTION Docetaxel is an antineoplastic agent belonging to the taxoid family. It is prepared by semisynthesis beginning with a precursor extracted from the renewable needle biomass of yew plants. The chemical name for docetaxel is (2R,3S)-N-carboxy-3-phenylisoserine, N- tert -butyl ester, 13-ester with 5β-20-epoxy-1,2α,4,7β,10β,13α-hexahydroxytax-11-en-9-one-4-acetate 2-benzoate. Docetaxel (anhydrous) has the following structural formula: Docetaxel, USP (anhydrous) is a white or almost white crystalline powder with an empirical formula of C 43 H 53 NO 14 , and a molecular weight of 807.88. It is highly lipophilic, soluble in methanol and practically insoluble in water. Docetaxel Injection, USP is a sterile, non-pyrogenic, clear, colorless to pale yellow solution at 10 mg/mL concentration. Each mL contains 10 mg docetaxel, USP (anhydrous), 260 mg polysorbate 80 NF, 4 mg anhydrous citric acid USP, 23% v/v alcohol USP (equivalent to 22.08% v/v absolute alcohol), and polyethylene glycol 300 NF. Docetaxel Injection, USP is available in single-dose vials containing 20 mg (2 mL) docetaxel (anhydrous) USP, and multiple-dose vials containing 80 mg (8 mL) or 160 mg (16 mL) docetaxel (anhydrous) USP. Docetaxel Injection requires NO prior dilution with a diluent and is ready to add to the infusion solution. structural formula
Overdosage
openFDA Drug Labeling10. OVERDOSAGE There is no known antidote for Docetaxel Injection overdosage. In case of overdosage, the patient should be kept in a specialized unit where vital functions can be closely monitored. Anticipated complications of overdosage include: bone marrow suppression, peripheral neurotoxicity, and mucositis. Patients should receive therapeutic G-CSF as soon as possible after discovery of overdose. Other appropriate symptomatic measures should be taken, as needed. In two reports of overdose, one patient received 150 mg/m 2 and the other received 200 mg/m 2 as 1-hour infusions. Both patients experienced severe neutropenia, mild asthenia, cutaneous reactions, and mild paresthesia, and recovered without incident. In mice, lethality was observed following single intravenous doses that were ≥154 mg/kg (about 4.5 times the human dose of 100 mg/m 2 on a mg/m 2 basis); neurotoxicity associated with paralysis, non-extension of hind limbs, and myelin degeneration was observed in mice at 48 mg/kg (about 1.5 times the human dose of 100 mg/m 2 basis). In male and female rats, lethality was observed at a dose of 20 mg/kg (comparable to the human dose of 100 mg/m 2 on a mg/m 2 basis) and was associated with abnormal mitosis and necrosis of multiple organs.
How Supplied / Storage and Handling
openFDA Drug Labeling16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING 16.1 How Supplied Docetaxel Injection, USP is supplied in single-dose or multiple-dose vials as a sterile, pyrogen-free, non-aqueous colorless to pale yellow solution. Discard unused portion of the single-dose vial. The following strengths are available in a one-vial formulation: Unit of Sale Concentration NDC 0409-0201-02 Carton of 1 single-dose vial 20 mg/2 mL (10 mg/mL) NDC 0409-0201-10 Carton of 1 multiple-dose vial 80 mg/8 mL (10 mg/mL) NDC 0409-0201-20 Carton of 1 multiple-dose vial 160 mg/16 mL (10 mg/mL) 16.2 Storage Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Retain in the original package to protect from light. Freezing does not adversely affect the product. After first use and following multiple needle entries and product withdrawals, Docetaxel Injection multiple-dose vials are stable for up to 28 days when stored between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F) and protected from light. 16.3 Handling and Disposal Docetaxel Injection is a hazardous drug. Follow applicable special handling and disposal procedures. 1
16.1 How Supplied Docetaxel Injection, USP is supplied in single-dose or multiple-dose vials as a sterile, pyrogen-free, non-aqueous colorless to pale yellow solution. Discard unused portion of the single-dose vial. The following strengths are available in a one-vial formulation: Unit of Sale Concentration NDC 0409-0201-02 Carton of 1 single-dose vial 20 mg/2 mL (10 mg/mL) NDC 0409-0201-10 Carton of 1 multiple-dose vial 80 mg/8 mL (10 mg/mL) NDC 0409-0201-20 Carton of 1 multiple-dose vial 160 mg/16 mL (10 mg/mL)
Adverse event reports
Source: openFDA FAERSAttributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: DOCETAXEL. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.
Recalls
Source: FDA Enforcement| Classification | Reported | Firm | Reason | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class II | March 20, 2019 | Dr. Reddy's Laboratories, Inc. | Defective Container: complaint for seal and cap vial issues that could lead to a lack of sterility assurance. | Terminated |
| Class II | January 17, 2018 | Dr. Reddy's Laboratories, Inc. | Defective Container: Product complaints received of defect in the seal of the Docetaxel injection vials that the aluminum seal and/or stopper is removed when the cap is flipped off. | Terminated |
Packaging and NDCs
Source: NDC Directory| Package NDC | Product NDC | Labeler | Description | Marketing start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 43066-001-01 | 43066-001 | Baxter Healthcare Corporation | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (43066-001-01) / 2 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | February 19, 2018 |
| 43066-006-01 | 43066-006 | Baxter Healthcare Corporation | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (43066-006-01) / 8 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | February 19, 2018 |
| 43066-010-01 | 43066-010 | Baxter Healthcare Corporation | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (43066-010-01) / 16 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | February 19, 2018 |
| 84172-113-01 | 84172-113 | Chongqing Sintaho Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. | 1000 g in 1 BAG (84172-113-01) | July 1, 2024 |
| 43598-258-11 | 43598-258 | Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Inc. | 1 mL in 1 VIAL, GLASS (43598-258-11) | November 10, 2014 |
| 43598-259-40 | 43598-259 | Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Inc. | 4 mL in 1 VIAL, GLASS (43598-259-40) | November 10, 2014 |
| 43598-389-57 | 43598-389 | Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Inc. | 8 mL in 1 VIAL, GLASS (43598-389-57) | April 22, 2019 |
| 43598-610-40 | 43598-610 | Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Inc. | 4 mL in 1 VIAL, GLASS (43598-610-40) | August 22, 2017 |
| 43598-611-11 | 43598-611 | Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Inc. | 1 mL in 1 VIAL, GLASS (43598-611-11) | August 22, 2017 |
| 55150-378-01 | 55150-378 | Eugia US LLC | 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (55150-378-01) / 2 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE | June 25, 2021 |
| 55150-379-01 | 55150-379 | Eugia US LLC | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (55150-379-01) / 8 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | June 25, 2021 |
| 55150-380-01 | 55150-380 | Eugia US LLC | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (55150-380-01) / 16 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | June 25, 2021 |
| 0409-0016-01 | 0409-0016 | Hospira, Inc. | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-0016-01) / 16 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | January 10, 2022 |
| 0409-0201-02 | 0409-0201 | Hospira, Inc. | 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-0201-02) / 2 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE | March 17, 2011 |
| 0409-0201-10 | 0409-0201 | Hospira, Inc. | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-0201-10) / 8 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | March 17, 2011 |
| 0409-0201-20 | 0409-0201 | Hospira, Inc. | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-0201-20) / 16 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | March 17, 2011 |
| 0409-0365-01 | 0409-0365 | Hospira, Inc. | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-0365-01) / 8 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | June 28, 2021 |
| 0409-0366-01 | 0409-0366 | Hospira, Inc. | 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-0366-01) / 1 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE | August 24, 2016 |
| 0409-0367-01 | 0409-0367 | Hospira, Inc. | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-0367-01) / 4 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | August 24, 2016 |
| 0409-0368-01 | 0409-0368 | Hospira, Inc. | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-0368-01) / 8 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | January 9, 2018 |
| 0409-1732-01 | 0409-1732 | Hospira, Inc. | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-1732-01) / 16 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | June 28, 2021 |
| 0409-2026-01 | 0409-2026 | Hospira, Inc. | 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-2026-01) / 2 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE | January 10, 2022 |
| 0409-4235-01 | 0409-4235 | Hospira, Inc. | 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-4235-01) / 1 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE | June 28, 2021 |
| 0409-5068-01 | 0409-5068 | Hospira, Inc. | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-5068-01) / 4 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | June 28, 2021 |
| 0409-7870-01 | 0409-7870 | Hospira, Inc. | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-7870-01) / 8 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | June 28, 2021 |
| 67457-531-02 | 67457-531 | Mylan Institutional LLC | 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (67457-531-02) / 2 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE | September 28, 2018 |
| 67457-532-08 | 67457-532 | Mylan Institutional LLC | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (67457-532-08) / 8 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | September 28, 2018 |
| 67457-533-16 | 67457-533 | Mylan Institutional LLC | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (67457-533-16) / 16 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | September 5, 2018 |
| 72078-040-08 | 72078-040 | Mylan Institutional LLC | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (72078-040-08) / 8 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | August 3, 2022 |
| 25021-245-01 | 25021-245 | Sagent Pharmaceuticals | 1 VIAL in 1 CARTON (25021-245-01) / 1 mL in 1 VIAL | September 15, 2017 |
| 25021-245-04 | 25021-245 | Sagent Pharmaceuticals | 1 VIAL in 1 CARTON (25021-245-04) / 4 mL in 1 VIAL | September 15, 2017 |
| 66758-050-01 | 66758-050 | Sandoz Inc. | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (66758-050-01) / 2 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | June 29, 2011 |
| 66758-050-02 | 66758-050 | Sandoz Inc. | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (66758-050-02) / 8 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | June 29, 2011 |
| 66758-050-03 | 66758-050 | Sandoz Inc. | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (66758-050-03) / 16 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | June 29, 2011 |
| 47335-323-40 | 47335-323 | Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc. | 1 VIAL, GLASS in 1 CARTON (47335-323-40) / 1 mL in 1 VIAL, GLASS | November 26, 2020 |
| 47335-895-40 | 47335-895 | Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc. | 1 VIAL, GLASS in 1 CARTON (47335-895-40) / 4 mL in 1 VIAL, GLASS | November 26, 2020 |
| 47335-939-40 | 47335-939 | Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc. | 1 VIAL, GLASS in 1 CARTON (47335-939-40) / 8 mL in 1 VIAL, GLASS | November 26, 2020 |
| 43066-001 | 43066-001 | Baxter Healthcare Corporation | — | February 19, 2018 |
| 43066-006 | 43066-006 | Baxter Healthcare Corporation | — | February 19, 2018 |
| 43066-010 | 43066-010 | Baxter Healthcare Corporation | — | February 19, 2018 |
| 84172-113 | 84172-113 | Chongqing Sintaho Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. | — | July 1, 2024 |
| 43598-258 | 43598-258 | Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Inc. | — | November 10, 2014 |
| 43598-259 | 43598-259 | Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Inc. | — | November 10, 2014 |
| 43598-389 | 43598-389 | Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Inc. | — | April 22, 2019 |
| 43598-610 | 43598-610 | Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Inc. | — | August 22, 2017 |
| 43598-611 | 43598-611 | Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Inc. | — | August 22, 2017 |
| 55150-378 | 55150-378 | Eugia US LLC | — | June 25, 2021 |
| 55150-379 | 55150-379 | Eugia US LLC | — | June 25, 2021 |
| 55150-380 | 55150-380 | Eugia US LLC | — | June 25, 2021 |
| 0409-0016 | 0409-0016 | Hospira, Inc. | — | January 10, 2022 |
| 0409-0201 | 0409-0201 | Hospira, Inc. | — | March 17, 2011 |
| 0409-0365 | 0409-0365 | Hospira, Inc. | — | June 28, 2021 |
| 0409-0366 | 0409-0366 | Hospira, Inc. | — | August 24, 2016 |
| 0409-0367 | 0409-0367 | Hospira, Inc. | — | August 24, 2016 |
| 0409-0368 | 0409-0368 | Hospira, Inc. | — | January 9, 2018 |
| 0409-1732 | 0409-1732 | Hospira, Inc. | — | June 28, 2021 |
| 0409-2026 | 0409-2026 | Hospira, Inc. | — | January 10, 2022 |
| 0409-4235 | 0409-4235 | Hospira, Inc. | — | June 28, 2021 |
| 0409-5068 | 0409-5068 | Hospira, Inc. | — | June 28, 2021 |
| 0409-7870 | 0409-7870 | Hospira, Inc. | — | June 28, 2021 |
| 67457-531 | 67457-531 | Mylan Institutional LLC | — | September 28, 2018 |
| 67457-532 | 67457-532 | Mylan Institutional LLC | — | September 28, 2018 |
| 67457-533 | 67457-533 | Mylan Institutional LLC | — | September 5, 2018 |
| 72078-040 | 72078-040 | Mylan Institutional LLC | — | August 3, 2022 |
| 72078-086 | 72078-086 | Mylan Institutional LLC | — | August 3, 2022 |
| 72078-087 | 72078-087 | Mylan Institutional LLC | — | August 3, 2022 |
| 25021-245 | 25021-245 | Sagent Pharmaceuticals | — | September 15, 2017 |
| 66758-050 | 66758-050 | Sandoz Inc. | — | June 29, 2011 |
| 47335-323 | 47335-323 | Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc. | — | November 26, 2020 |
| 47335-895 | 47335-895 | Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc. | — | November 26, 2020 |
| 47335-939 | 47335-939 | Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc. | — | November 26, 2020 |
Sources for this page
| Dataset | Agency | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| NDC Directory | FDA | Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages |
| Drugs@FDA | FDA | Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status |
| Orange Book | FDA | Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity |
| Drug Labeling | FDA / NLM | Prescribing information reproduced above |
| FAERS | FDA | Adverse event report counts |
| Enforcement | FDA | Recall records |
Generated September 25, 2026 · 13 sections on this page.