Drug interactions
Doxorubicin + Paclitaxel
Severity: Major
Doxorubicin and Paclitaxel: major interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Paclitaxel can raise doxorubicin exposure, increasing neutropenia, mucositis and cardiotoxicity, especially when doxorubicin is given shortly before paclitaxel or at higher cumulative doses.
What this interaction means in plain words
Doxorubicin and Paclitaxel can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Doxorubicin belongs to Oncology; Paclitaxel belongs to Oncology.
Why it happens
Paclitaxel (and its vehicle) reduces biliary excretion and clearance of doxorubicin, likely via P-glycoprotein effects.
What to do
Give doxorubicin before paclitaxel with adequate interval per protocol and limit cumulative anthracycline dose. Monitor left ventricular function and blood counts.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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Other interactions of Doxorubicin
Other interactions of Paclitaxel
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Doxorubicin with Paclitaxel?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Doxorubicin and Paclitaxel can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Paclitaxel can raise doxorubicin exposure, increasing neutropenia, mucositis and cardiotoxicity, especially when doxorubicin is given shortly before paclitaxel or at higher cumulative doses.
How serious is the interaction between Doxorubicin and Paclitaxel?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Give doxorubicin before paclitaxel with adequate interval per protocol and limit cumulative anthracycline dose. Monitor left ventricular function and blood counts.
What other medicines interact with Doxorubicin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Doxorubicin with, for example, Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live, Belatacept, Cobicistat. The full list is on the Doxorubicin page.
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