The alleged correlation between Taxotere and permanent hair loss is a prevalent concern both in the patient population and medical community.

As a popular chemotherapy drug, Taxotere (docetaxel), is an especially popular choice for women undergoing breast cancer treatment but allegedly has been causing patients to experience alopecia.

Alopecia, or permanent hair loss, is a potential side effect that can occur with some chemotherapy treatment drugs.

Even though hair loss can be expected with most chemotherapy treatments, permanent alopecia is fairly unusual and should be listed as a potential side effect of Taxotere.

Even though Taxotere can be used to treat other variants of cancer, it is most popularly used for breast cancer treatment. Hair loss occurs during chemotherapy because the drugs target rapidly producing cells. This makes hair follicles primary targets.

While Taxotere’s warning label does mention potential hair loss, the label does indicate that the hair “generally grows back.” This greatly contradicts numerous injury reports from women alleging they were not warned against the correlation between Taxotere and permanent hair loss.

According to a recent study published in 2006, oncologist Dr. Scot Sedlacek had found that 6.3% of breast cancer patients grew back less than 50% of their hair if they were prescribed Taxotere.

Another study published in the 2011 American Journal of Dermatopathology, had found an increased risk of permanent alopecia when patients used docetaxel for breast cancer.

Other studies have found similar results, indicating a strong risk of permanent hair loss if patients were prescribed Taxotere.

Overview of Taxotere Hair Loss Allegations

Manufacturing company Sanofi Aventis was reportedly required to warn the European market of Taxotere and permanent hair loss several years ago, while the FDA released the warning in the U.S. in December 2015.

It is important to note that this medication has been on the market since the mid 1990s, but the label change was only issued a few years ago.

Sanofi Aventis allegedly knew of the risks for years, but failed to warn patients against Taxotere and permanent hair loss. Even though this is a significant concern for breast cancer patients, the manufacturing company allegedly failed to disclose the risk of Taxotere and permanent hair loss.

Women who have suffered Taxotere hair loss may be able file legal action against the manufacturing company, and should contact a specialized lawyer to determine eligibility.