Summary

Paclitaxel and other taxanes are chemotherapeutic drugs that work by preventing breakdown of microtubules. This effect is particularly effective against rapidly dividing cells, making paclitaxel a useful tool in treating cancers. One side effect associated with microtubule inhibition is peripheral neuropathy. Other side effects seen include myelosuppression and hypersensitivity.

Key Points

• Paclitaxel / Taxanes
  • Mechanism
    • Blocks microtubule breakdown
      • They do this by hyperstabilizing polymerized microtubules
      • Occurs during the M phase of the cell cycle
        • Prevents anaphase from occurring
          • Toxic to rapidly-dividing cells
  • Clinical Use
    • Ovarian and breast cancers
  • Adverse Effects
    • Peripheral neuropathy
    • Myelosuppression (obvious)
    • Hypersensitivity