Health Library

Cabazitaxel (By injection)

Cabazitaxel (ka-baz-i-TAX-el)

Treats prostate cancer.

Brand Name(s):

Jevtana

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through an IV placed in a vein. It must be given slowly, so the medicine will have to stay in place for 1 hour.
• You will receive this medicine while you are in a hospital or cancer treatment center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
• You may also receive other medicines (including allergy medicine, steroids, or H2 blocker) at least 30 minutes before receiving this medicine to help prevent allergic reactions, nausea, and vomiting from the injection.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• Missed dose: This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose, call your doctor, home health caregiver, or treatment clinic for instructions.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Some medicines can affect how cabazitaxel works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
  • Atazanavir, clarithromycin, indinavir, itraconazole, ketoconazole, nefazodone, nelfinavir, ritonavir, saquinavir, telithromycin, voriconazole
  • Blood thinner (including warfarin)
  • NSAID pain or arthritis medicine (including aspirin, celecoxib, diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen)
  • Steroid medicine (including dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, prednisolone)

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• This medicine may cause birth defects if either partner is using it during conception or pregnancy. Tell your doctor right away if you or your partner becomes pregnant. Male patients with female partners should use an effective form of birth control during treatment with this medicine and for at least 4 months after the last dose.
• Talk with your doctor before using this medicine if you plan to have children. Some men who use this medicine have become infertile (unable to have children).
• Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, lung disease, anemia, any type of infection, or a history of stomach ulcer or bleeding. Tell your doctor if you have ever received radiation treatment.
• This medicine can cause the following problems:
  • Stomach and bowel problems (including bleeding, perforation, inflammation, or blockage)
  • Kidney problems
  • Cystitis (inflammation of the bladder)
  • Lung or breathing problems
• This medicine may make you bleed, bruise, or get infections more easily. Take precautions to prevent illness and injury. Wash your hands often.
• Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Change in how much or how often you urinate, red or dark brown urine, difficult, burning, or painful urination
• Chest pain, cough, trouble breathing
• Constipation, severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain
• Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, body aches
• Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting
• Numbness, tingling, or burning pain in your hands, arms, legs, or feet
• Swelling in your hands, ankles, feet, or face
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Hair loss
• Loss of appetite
• Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed
• Tiredness

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024