Z-Taxel 300 contains paclitaxel, a chemotherapy medication used in the treatment of various types of cancer. It belongs to the class of drugs known as taxanes, which are derived from the bark of the Pacific yew tree. Paclitaxel is known for its ability to interfere with cancer cell division and has become a key part of treatment regimens for cancers such as breast, ovarian, and lung cancer.

Z-Taxel is typically administered as an intravenous infusion and is often used in combination with other anticancer agents to improve outcomes.

Mechanism of Action

Paclitaxel works by targeting the microtubules within cells. Microtubules are essential structures that help cells divide and replicate. Paclitaxel stabilises these microtubules, preventing them from breaking down, which is a necessary step during cell division. This interference disrupts the normal process of mitosis, ultimately leading to the death of rapidly dividing cancer cells.

Unlike healthy cells, cancer cells divide more frequently, making them more vulnerable to this disruption.

Uses

Z-Taxel is used to treat a wide range of cancers, often in advanced or metastatic stages. Its uses include:

• Breast cancer, especially after failure of first-line chemotherapy or as part of combination therapy

• Ovarian cancer, commonly used after platinum-based therapy

• Non-small cell lung cancer, in combination with other drugs

• Kaposi’s sarcoma, particularly in patients with AIDS

• Pancreatic cancer, often used with gemcitabine in metastatic settings

  Adverse Effects

  While Z-Taxel is an effective anticancer agent, it can cause side effects that vary depending on the dose, duration, and individual patient sensitivity.

  Common Side Effects

  • Hair loss

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Fatigue or weakness

  • Low blood counts, increasing the risk of infection or bleeding

  • Numbness or tingling in hands and feet, known as peripheral neuropathy

  • Joint or muscle pain