Onxol

Generic name:paclitaxel [ PAK-li-TAK-sel ]
Drug class:Mitotic inhibitors

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Dec 1, 2020. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Onxol?

Onxol is used to treat breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and lung cancer. It is also used to treat AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma.

Onxol is sometimes given after other treatments have failed.

Onxol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; feeling like you might pass out; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Onxol can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections and help your blood to clot. You may get an infection or bleed more easily. Call your doctor if you have unusual bruising or bleeding, or signs of infection (fever, sore throat, mouth sores, cough).

Before taking this medicine

You should not be treated with Onxol if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• low white blood cell (WBC) counts; or

• an allergy to castor oil (contained in Onxol and other medicines such as cyclosporine or teniposide).

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• heart problems; or

• liver disease.

Onxol may harm an unborn baby. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant.

You should not breastfeed while you are using Onxol.

How is Onxol given?

Onxol is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

Onxol must be given slowly, and the infusion can take 3 to 24 hours to complete.

Onxol is usually given once every 2 to 3 weeks. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

You may be given other medications to prevent an allergic reaction while you are receiving Onxol.

Your breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, kidney function, and other vital signs will be watched closely while you are receiving Onxol.

Tell your caregivers if you feel any burning, pain, or swel...