Doceptor 20 mg (Docetaxel) Injection

Introduction to Doceptor 20 mg (Docetaxel) Injection

Doceptor 20 mg, containing the active ingredient Docetaxel, is a microtubule inhibitor chemotherapy injection used to treat breast cancer, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), gastric adenocarcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). Manufactured by Eskayef Pharmaceuticals Ltd. and supplied globally by Saif Pharma, this cytotoxic agent disrupts cancer cell division by stabilizing microtubules, offering proven efficacy in monotherapy and combination regimens.

Key Indications & Therapeutic Benefits

Doceptor 20 mg is indicated for:

• Breast Cancer (BC):
  • Metastatic BC: Single agent after prior chemotherapy failure.
  • Adjuvant Therapy: Combined with doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide for operable node-positive BC.
• Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC):
  • Post-Platinum Failure: Single agent for advanced NSCLC.
  • First-Line Therapy: Combined with cisplatin for untreated, unresectable NSCLC.
• Prostate Cancer: Combined with prednisone for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer.
• Gastric Adenocarcinoma (GC): Combined with cisplatin/fluorouracil for untreated advanced GC.
• Head/Neck Cancer (SCCHN): Induction therapy with cisplatin/fluorouracil for locally advanced SCCHN.

Mechanism of Action: Docetaxel binds to tubulin, stabilizing microtubules and blocking mitosis, leading to apoptosis in rapidly dividing cancer cells.

Pharmacology & Pharmacokinetics

• Chemical Class: Taxane derivative (microtubule inhibitor).
• Metabolism: Primarily hepatic via CYP3A4 enzymes.
• Excretion: Fecal (75%) and renal (6%), with a half-life of 11–18 hours.
• Protein Binding: >98%, leading to prolonged tissue distribution.

Recommended Dosage & Administration

Standard Regimens (IV infusion over 1 hour every 3 weeks):

• Breast Cancer:
  • Metastatic: 60–100 mg/m².
  • Adjuvant: 75 mg/m² post-doxorubicin/cyclophosphamide.
• NSCLC:
  • Post-Platinum: 75 mg/m².
  • First-Line: 75 mg/m² + cisplatin 75 mg/m².
• Prostate Cancer: 75 mg/m² + prednisone 5 mg twice daily.
• Gastric Cancer: 75 mg/m² + cisplatin/fluorouracil.
• SCCHN: 75 mg/m² + cisplatin/fluorouracil (4 cycles).

Critical Guidelines:

1. Premedication: Administer oral corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone) to reduce hypersensitivity and fluid retention.
2. Contraindications: Avoid in patients with neutrophil counts <1500/mm³ or hypersensitivity to polysorbate 80.
3. Infusion: Use non-PVC equipment and a 21-gauge needle for preparation.

Drug Interactions & Precautions

• CYP3A4 Inhibitors/Inducers: Adjust dose with ketoconazole, rifampin, or St. John’s wort.
• Hepatic Impairment: Avoid in severe cases (e.g., bilirubin >1.5x ULN).
• Hypersensitivity: Monitor for anaphylaxis; discontinue infusion if severe reactions occur.

Contraindications & Safety Warnings

• Neutropenia: Baseline neutrophil count must be ≥1500/mm³.
• Hypersensitivity: Contraindicated in patients with prior severe reactions to taxanes.
• Pregnancy/Lactation: Category D – teratogenic; avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Critical Warnings:

1. Myelosuppression: Severe neutropenia (90% incidence) and febrile neutropenia (10–15%).
2. Fluid Retention: Cumulative toxicity managed with premedication.
3. Neurotoxicity: Peripheral neuropathy (30–40%) and sensory deficits.
4. GI Toxicity: Severe diarrhea, mucositis, and rare ischemic colitis.

Common Side Effects

• Hematologic: Neutropenia (90%), anemia (70%), thrombocytopenia (10%).
• Gastrointestinal: Nausea (50%), diarrhea (40%), mucositis (35%).
• Dermatologic: Alopecia (60%), nail changes (30%), skin rashes.
• Neurologic: Peripheral neuropathy (40%), dysgeusia (25%).
• Other: Fluid retention (50%), fatigue (60%), myalgia (25%).

Storage & Handling

• Storage: Store at 2–25°C; protect from light.
• Stability: Stable for 28 days post-dilution at 2–8°C.

Why Choose Doceptor 20 mg from Saif Pharma?

Saif Pharma is a globally trusted supplier of oncology medications, delivering WHO-GMP-certified chemotherapy drugs to 60+ countries, including the USA, Canada, UAE, and India. Partnering with Eskayef Pharmaceuticals ensures adherence to international quality standards, making Doceptor 20 mg a reliable choice for oncologists.

Clinical Advantages of Docetaxel

• Broad Spectrum: Effective against multiple solid tumors.
• Synergy in Combination: Enhances efficacy of platinum agents (cisplatin) and fluorouracil.
• Proven Survival Benefit: Improves outcomes in breast, lung, and prostate cancers.

Patient Management Tips

• Premedication: Administer dexamethasone 8 mg twice daily for 3 days starting 1 day before infusion.
• Monitoring:
  • Blood Counts: Weekly CBC during treatment.
  • Liver Function: Regular LFTs in hepatic impairment.
  • Neuropathy Assessments: Baseline and periodic neurologic exams.

Overdose Management

Overdose may exacerbate neutropenia, neuropathy, or mucositis. No specific antidote exists; manage with G-CSF for neutropenia and symptomatic care.

Conclusion

Doceptor 20 mg (Docetaxel) Injection is a cornerstone of modern chemotherapy, offering targeted efficacy against aggressive malignancies. For authentic, cost-effective access, trust Saif Pharma—your global partner in oncology care.