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  • Generic Name: (paclitaxel protein-bound)
    Other Brands: N/A
  • Last Revised: 01/2015
    • What is this medication and its most common uses?

      Abraxane is an anticancer medicine used to relieve symptoms associated with cancers of the breast, lung, or pancreas. Abraxane is administered as intravenous (directly into a vein) injections.


      How does this medication work?

      Abraxane is thought to work by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells in the body.


      What: By stopping the growth of cancer cells, Abraxane may help to relieve your symptoms associated with cancer.


      How do I know it is working?


    • What are the possible side effects of this medication?


      Your healthcare provider will do routine blood tests during treatment with Abraxane. Your healthcare provider will also monitor your white blood cell counts. People with low white blood cell counts can develop severe infections.

      Your healthcare provider will not switch you to or from another formulation of paclitaxel (the ingredient in Abraxane).

      More common side effects may include: hair loss; numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in the hands or feet; abnormal heart beat; tiredness; joint and muscle pain; changes in your liver function tests; rash; anemia (low red blood cell counts); nausea and vomiting; infections; diarrhea; dehydration; swelling in the hands or feet, decreased appetite, fever.

      Less common side effects may include:

      Lung or breathing problems, with symptoms such as sudden onset of persistent dry cough or shortness of breath.

      Serious allergic reactions, with symptoms such as rash, swelling, or anaphylaxis (a serious and rapid allergic reaction that may result in death if not immediately treated).

      Harm to your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant while receiving Abraxane.

    • Who should not take this medication?

      Your healthcare provider will not administer Abraxane to you if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients.

      Your healthcare provider will not administer Abraxane to you if you have low white blood cell counts.


      Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Abraxane. Also, talk to your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, especially if you have liver or kidney problems, if you are a man planning to father a child, or if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

    • What is the usual dosage?


      Adults: Your healthcare provider will prescribe the appropriate dose for you based on your height and weight.


    • How should I take this medication?

      Your healthcare provider will administer Abraxane to you.

    • What should I avoid while taking this medication?


      Do not become pregnant or breastfeed while you are receiving Abraxane. Talk to your healthcare provider about effective birth control methods.

      Do not father a child while you are receiving Abraxane. Talk to your healthcare provider about effective birth control methods.


      If Abraxane is used with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Abraxane may interact with numerous medications. Therefore, it is very important that you tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking.


      Abraxane can harm your unborn baby if you receive it during pregnancy. Do not become pregnant or breastfeed while you are receiving Abraxane. Tell your healthcare provider immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.


      Abraxane should be given under special circumstances determined by your healthcare provider. If you miss your scheduled dose, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for advice.

    • How should I store this medication?

      Your healthcare provider will store this medication for you.

    • Who should I contact in case of emergency or overdose?
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