Paclitaxel

Category: pharmacological

Aliases: Taxol

Pharmacological Mechanism

Taxane microtubule stabilizer — binds β-tubulin, prevents depolymerization, freezes the mitotic spindle. Originally from Pacific yew bark. Workhorse of breast + ovarian + lung regimens. CYP3A4/2C8 substrate. Hypersensitivity to Cremophor EL vehicle requires premedication; abraxane (albumin-bound) sidesteps this.

Half-Life (t½)

IV: 8.6h

Dosing Guidelines

• IV: Typical 175mg (Range: 80 - 175 mg)

Target Organ Systems

• respiratory
• digestive
• reproductive