Docetaxel (Taxotere): preclinical and general clinical information

Docetaxel (Taxotere; Rhône-Poulenc Rorer, Collegeville, PA) is the second member of the taxane class of cytotoxic agents to reach clinical use. The development of docetaxel was remarkably rapid, from the initial hemisynthesis in 1986 to worldwide filing for commercial use in 1994. Docetaxel is now approved in over 90 countries. As the use of docetaxel expands as a result of continuing preclinical and clinical investigation, better strategies for treatment of patients with cancer are emerging. This report reviews certain important new developments regarding docetaxel involving both its pharmacology and use in practice.