Hi
My partner’s weekly taxol dose was reduced after they experienced some nose bleeds and tingling sensation in hands and feet. Since then these symptoms are manageable thankfully. However I just want to know that how much does this impact reduction of the cancer , like is the cancer reduction slower with a decreased dose. Is it common procedure that taxol doses are reduced over a period of time. Just too many questions and doubts. Unfortunately the oncologist that meets them after each cycle of taxol changes everytime and some of them are unfortunately very high up in their heads and don’t bother to respond respectfully. However that’s a topic for a different conversation. But can anyone help with the dose reduction question please.
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I think it’s quite common for dosage to be reduced when peripheral neuropathy symptoms start to build, as peripheral neuropathy can become permanent and be very debilitating. I had dosage reduced to (I think) 80% for my last 3 out of 12 infusions. I don’t know how much difference it makes to effectiveness, if any, but can be certain their intention is make sure risks don’t outweigh benefits.
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I had a 20% reduction for my last 3 packitaxol ( i had 12 in all) , due to neuropathy …my onc said some peopke have to quit completely at 9 , so to have 12 , even at a liwer dose is good going
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Oh, that’s really helpful to know. As long as one is able to take the medicine it is always a good sign it seems. Thank you 
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Yes, I am also assuming it is better to be on some form of the medication than not being able to have it at all. Thank you
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Thank you for asking on behalf of your partner, this forum is for patients and their wider support.
I had 12 weekly Paclitaxel (taxol/taxane) and had a reduced dose from the beginning due to family history and allergies. I then had 2 further reductions due to an allergic reaction and hospitalisation with a temperature. I managed to finish all 12 infusions with the reductions, had they not reduced the dose I may not have completed the treatment plan.
I was told by a professor in oncology that they would love to give everyone a bespoke dose of chemo that would prevent any side effects but they are not there yet. So everyone gets a standard dose and that can be reduced to prevent/treat side effects such as bleeding, peripheral neuropathy, allergies,and infections. (to name a few).
I hope all goes smoothly. 
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Thank you so much. This information is so so helpful 
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