Paclitaxel and docetaxel in the treatment of breast cancer

Paclitaxel and docetaxel are considered fundamental drugs in the treatment of breast cancer.

To review the current role of taxanes in the treatment breast cancer, with emphasis on data from randomized trials comparing the two taxanes.

We have reviewed the available evidence in the literature to gauge the results of therapy of early and advanced breast cancer with taxanes.

Clinically benefits were first shown in metastatic setting. More recently, benefits have also been seen in the therapy of early-stage disease. It seems reasonable to consider either drug as standard treatment for node-positive early stage or metastatic breast cancer. Future studies should explore the optimal way of combining taxanes with novel biological and cytotoxic drugs.

Based on existing evidence, clinicians should choose a taxane-based regimen for their patients, according to clinical activity, toxicity profile, pharmacokinetics, and a dosing schedule that best meets the therapeutic needs and convenience.