Evolution of taxanes in the treatment of metastatic breast cancer.
Taxanes have become effective therapies for patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC); however, understanding the differences among them is important. Each of the taxanes currently approved for treating MBC has a unique formulation, which translates to differences in toxicity profiles and administration considerations. In this article, the rationale for the development of the taxanes paclitaxel, docetaxel, and nab-paclitaxel is reviewed from a historical perspective. The mechanisms of action, formulations, and indications of taxanes also are discussed. The impact of their formulations on clinical practice and patient care, particularly solvent-based versus novel solvent-free formulations, will be reviewed from the nursing perspective.
University of California, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, USA. slbinder@mednet.ucla.edu
Sandra
S
Binder
D000972:Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic / Q000191:economics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000473:pathology; D016527:Drug Costs; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009362:Neoplasm Metastasis; D043823:Taxoids / Q000191:economics / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D000972:Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic; D043823:Taxoids