Docetaxel

Docetaxel is an antineoplastic agent and, as with other potentially toxic compounds, caution should be exercised when handling it and preparing Docetaxel solutions.‍‍‍‍‍‍​​​‍​​​​​​ The use of gloves is recommended. If Docetaxel concentrate or infusion solution should come into contact with skin, wash immediately and thoroughly with soap and water. If Docetaxel concentrate or infusion solution should come into contact with mucous membranes, wash immediately and thoroughly with water. Preparation for the intravenous administration Preparation of the infusion solution DO NOT use other docetaxel medicinal products consisting of 2 vials (concentrate and solvent) with this medicinal product (Docetaxel 20 mg/ml concentrate for solution for infusion, which contains only 1 vial). Docetaxel 20 mg/ml concentrate for solution for infusion requires NO prior dilution with a solvent and is ready to add to the infusion solution. Each vial is of single use and should be used immediately. If the vials are stored under refrigeration, allow the required number of boxes of Docetaxel concentrate for solution for infusion to stand below 25°C for 5 minutes before use. More than one vial of Docetaxel concentrate for solution for infusion may be necessary to obtain the required dose for the patient. Aseptically withdraw the required amount of Docetaxel concentrate for solution for infusion using a calibrated syringe fitted with a 21G needle. In Docetaxel 20 mg /ml vial the concentration of docetaxel is 20 mg/ml. The required volume of Docetaxel concentrate for solution for infusion must be injected into a 250 ml infusion bag or bottle containing either glucose solution 50 mg/ml (5%) or sodium chloride 9 mg/ml (0.9%) solution for infusion. If a dose greater than 190 mg of docetaxel is required, use a larger volume of the infusion vehicle so that a concentration of 0.74 mg/ml docetaxel is not exceeded. Mix the infusion bag or bottle manually using a rocking motion. The infusion bag solution should be used within 8 hours below 25°C including the one hour infusion to the patient. As with all parenteral products, Docetaxel infusion solution should be visually inspected prior to use, solutions containing a precipitate should be discarded. Any unused product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.