Chemotherapy is a widely used treatment for many cancers, and each chemo drug has possible side effects depending on the drug, the dosage, your general health and the cancer being treated. Not everyone will experience all the side effects, with many being temporary and subsiding once treatment has ended.
Taxotere Side Effects
Taxotere is the brand name for the drug docetaxel. Common side effects that occur in more than 30 percent of patients taking the drug include nausea, diarrhea, lowered white and red blood cell counts (which can lead to anemia and increased risk of infections), hair loss, fatigue, mouth sores and peripheral neuropathy (tingling and numbness in feet and hands). Side effects that occur less commonly are vomiting, muscle and joint pain and a low blood platelet level (which can lead to easy bruising and bleeding).
Cyclophosphamide Side Effects
According to the American Cancer Society, common side effects of cyclophosphamide (brand name Cytoxan) include lowered white blood cell count (increasing risk of infection), nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, appetite loss, hair loss, amenorrhea (loss of menstrual periods) in women and decreased production of sperm in men, According to the American Cancer Society. Other side effects of this drug may include blood in the urine, acne, fatigue and allergic reactions.
Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects of cyclophosphamide and Taxotere that should be reported to your health care team within 24 hours of occurring include nausea that interferes with functioning, vomiting or diarrhea four or more times within 24 hours, tarry or bloody stools, blood in your urine and mouth sores, according to ChemoCare.com.
For Taxotere, if you notice yellowing of your skin or eyes, swelling of your ankles or stomach, or shortness of breath, your health care team should be notified. A fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher or chills while on either drug are side effects that need to be reported immediately to your doctor. These may be signs of an infection.
