Chemotherapy hair loss is a side effect most breast cancer patients do not look forward to, and take solace in the fact it in most cases is only temporary.

However, popular chemotherapy drug Taxotere (Docetaxel) has been alleged to cause permanent hair loss in patients.

While Taxotere can also be used to treat other cancers, it commonly prescribed to breast cancer patients who have to undergo chemotherapy and is the most prescribed in its drug family.

Manufactured by Sanofi Aventis, it was approved by the FDA in 1996 and works by directly interfering with the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body.

Taxotere had earned the company billions before losing the patent on the drug, as it was considered a “wonder drug” at the time of its release.

Now, Sanofi Aventis is currently facing major criticism, for allegedly failing to warn patients against Taxotere side effects with permanent hair loss being the most significant.

Also known as alopecia, approximately 9% of breast cancer patients suffer this condition causing severe impacts on their lives.

Out of the 2.8 million women in the United States diagnosed with breast cancer, breastcancer.org estimated that 75% of these patients will be prescribed Taxotere.

Overview of Taxotere Side Effects

Recent studies indicate permanent hair loss being apart of Taxotere side effects, inciting concern in both patients and medical experts.

One of the recent studies published was in February 2012, in the Annals of Oncology, analyzing 20 female breast cancer patients prescribed Taxotere.

The study showed that each of the patients suffered permanent chemotherapy hair loss, after being administered the chemotherapy drug.

Researchers had concluded that the hair loss was not caused by thyroid disorders, with none of the patients having no history of alopecia.

A more recent study was presented at the 2014 National Cancer Conference, with researchers finding that 10-15% Taxotere patients suffered permanent hair loss.

Affected by Taxotere Hair Loss?

Chemotherapy patients who are worried for hair loss and other Taxotere side effects, are encouraged to be vigilant for any unusual side effects during treatment.

Cancer patients can also explore different preventative measures against permanent hair loss, such as scalp cooling and cold caps. Using these therapy treatment methods, can possibly help patients cope with chemotherapy hair loss.

Even though the psychological trauma permanent chemotherapy hair loss can induce in patients, it is not mentioned on Taxotere’s warning label.

Taxotere patients affected by permanent hair loss, may be eligible to file legal action against Sanofi Aventis for failing to warn them.

Potential claimants should contact a specialized lawyer, to determine if they have a Taxotere hair loss lawsuit.