pac-nab suspension for injection - Paclitaxel (100mg) medicine

Abraxane 100mg Injection: Comprehensive Guide

No reviews yet
🏭 Metta Life Sciences Private Limited 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 23, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: High
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 23, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Fever, chills, or sore throat (signs of infection)
  • Severe allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
  • Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
  • Severe numbness or weakness in hands or feet
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Decreased urine output

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is pac-nab suspension for injection used for?

This medicine is an albumin-bound form of paclitaxel used to treat metastatic breast cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, and pancreatic cancer. It is given as an intravenous infusion by a healthcare professional.

  • Generic Name: Paclitaxel (100mg)
  • Manufacturer: Metta Life Sciences Private Limited
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 pac-nab suspension for injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा पैक्लिटैक्सेल का एक विशेष इंजेक्शन रूप है, जिसका उपयोग कैंसर के इलाज में किया जाता है। यह मुख्य रूप से मेटास्टेटिक स्तन कैंसर, नॉन-स्मॉल सेल लंग कैंसर और अग्नाशय के कैंसर के लिए दी जाती है। यह दवा कैंसर कोशिकाओं के विभाजन को रोककर उन्हें नष्ट करती है। इसे डॉक्टर या नर्स द्वारा नस के माध्यम से दिया जाता है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में बालों का झड़ना, हाथ-पैरों में झुनझुनी या सुन्नपन, थकान, मतली, उल्टी, दस्त और मुंह के छाले शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में रक्त कोशिकाओं की कमी, गंभीर एलर्जी, हृदय संबंधी समस्याएं और तंत्रिका क्षति हो सकती है। कोई भी असामान्य लक्षण दिखने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल योग्य डॉक्टर की देखरेख में ही दी जानी चाहिए। इलाज के दौरान नियमित रूप से रक्त परीक्षण कराना आवश्यक है। संक्रमण से बचने के लिए सावधानी बरतें। गर्भवती महिलाओं और स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाओं को यह दवा नहीं लेनी चाहिए। अन्य दवाओं के साथ परस्पर क्रिया के बारे में डॉक्टर को बताएं।

💡 Did You Know? Over 80% of the antiretroviral drugs used globally to combat AIDS are supplied by Indian pharmaceutical companies.

💊 pac-nab suspension for injection Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Metastatic breast cancer","description":"Used as first-line or subsequent therapy for metastatic breast cancer, often after failure of anthracycline-based regimens.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Non-small cell lung cancer","description":"Indicated in combination with carboplatin for first-line treatment of locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Pancreatic cancer","description":"Used in combination with gemcitabine for first-line treatment of metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Ovarian cancer","description":"Sometimes used off-label for recurrent or refractory ovarian cancer, though other taxanes may be preferred.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Gastric cancer","description":"Occasionally used off-label in combination regimens for advanced gastric cancer.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Metastatic breast cancer

Also treats: Non-small cell lung cancer, Pancreatic cancer

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Paclitaxel (100mg)
Brand Namepac-nab suspension for injection
ManufacturerMetta Life Sciences Private Limited
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassANTI NEOPLASTICS
Action ClassAntimicrotubule agents- Taxanes
Route of AdministrationParenteral (intravenous infusion)
StorageStore vials refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) in the original carton to protect from light. Do not freeze. Once reconstituted, use immediately or store as directed by the pharmacy.
Shelf LifeRefer to the manufacturer's expiration date on the vial. Do not use beyond the expiry date.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Administer only under the supervision of a qualified oncologist.
2
Monitor complete blood counts before each cycle.
3
Assess for peripheral neuropathy at each visit.
4
Adjust dose in patients with hepatic impairment.
5
Avoid live vaccines during treatment.
6
Advise patients on effective contraception.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Breast lump
This medicine is used for metastatic breast cancer.
Likely Use
Persistent cough
This medicine is used for non-small cell lung cancer.
Likely Use
Abdominal pain
This medicine is used for pancreatic cancer.
Likely Use
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionThis medicine is administered intravenously, so absorption is complete and immediate. The albumin-bound formulation does not require premedication to prevent solvent-related hypersensitivity reactions.
DistributionPaclitaxel is widely distributed to tissues, with high protein binding. The albumin-bound form may have altered distribution compared to conventional paclitaxel, potentially enhancing delivery to tumors.
Protein BindingPaclitaxel is approximately 89-98% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismPaclitaxel is primarily metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes, mainly CYP2C8 and CYP3A4.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of paclitaxel is approximately 27 hours.
ExcretionPaclitaxel and its metabolites are primarily excreted in feces via biliary excretion, with a small amount excreted in urine.
BioavailabilityBioavailability is 100% due to intravenous administration.
Onset of ActionThe onset of action is not immediate; effects on tumor cells occur over hours to days. Clinical response may take weeks to become evident.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentration occurs at the end of the intravenous infusion.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action is not precisely defined but is related to the dosing schedule and cellular effects. Effects on microtubules are reversible upon drug clearance.

How It Works

This medicine works by binding to the beta-tubulin subunit of microtubules, stabilizing them and preventing their normal disassembly. This disruption of microtubule dynamics leads to cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase and subsequent apoptosis of cancer cells. The albumin-bound formulation facilitates transport across endothelial cells via albumin receptor-mediated pathways, potentially enhancing drug delivery to tumor tissues.

Mechanism Steps

1
Binding to beta-tubulin: This medicine binds to the beta-tubulin subunit of microtubules, promoting their stabilization.
2
Microtubule stabilization: Stabilization prevents the normal depolymerization of microtubules, disrupting the dynamic equilibrium required for cell division.
3
Cell cycle arrest: The disruption leads to arrest of cells in the G2/M phase of the cell cycle.
4
Apoptosis: Prolonged arrest triggers programmed cell death (apoptosis) in cancer cells.

💡 How to Take pac-nab suspension for injection

Strength: 100 mg per vial, lyophilized powder for reconstitution for intravenous infusion.

1This medicine is given by a healthcare professional as an intravenous infusion.
2The infusion typically takes 30 minutes.
3Premedication may not be required, but your doctor may prescribe medications to prevent nausea or allergic reactions.
4You will be monitored during and after the infusion for any reactions.
5Follow your oncology team's instructions regarding hydration and other medications.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe dose of this medicine varies by indication and is individualized by a qualified clinician. For metastatic breast cancer, a common dose is 260 mg/m² intravenously over 30 minutes every 3 weeks. For non-small cell lung cancer, it is often given at 100 mg/m² on days 1, 8, and 15 of a 21-day cycle in combination with carboplatin. For pancreatic cancer, a typical dose is 125 mg/m² on days 1, 8, and 15 of a 28-day cycle with gemcitabine. Dose adjustments are required for hepatic impairment, severe neutropenia, or neuropathy. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatric oncologist.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more susceptible to side effects such as neuropathy and bone marrow suppression. Dose selection should be cautious, and monitoring should be more frequent.
Renal ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is recommended for renal impairment, but caution is advised in severe renal impairment.
Hepatic ImpairmentFor patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment, dose reduction is recommended. For mild impairment, no adjustment may be needed. Consult prescribing information for specific guidelines.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum tolerated dose varies by regimen and patient factors. Do not exceed the dose prescribed by your oncologist.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

Grapefruit
Avoid
May increase drug levels by inhibiting CYP3A4.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 You miss a scheduled infusion appointment
→ Contact your oncology team immediately to reschedule.
💡 Do not attempt to self-administer.

⚠️ Side Effects of pac-nab suspension for injection

✅ Common Side Effects

Hair loss (Very common (>50%))
Usually reversible after treatment ends. Consider wigs or scarves for comfort.
Peripheral neuropathy (Common (20-30%))
Report numbness or tingling to your doctor. Dose adjustment may be needed.
Fatigue (Common (20-30%))
Rest when needed. Stay hydrated and maintain gentle activity.
Nausea (Common (10-20%))
Take anti-nausea medications as prescribed. Eat small, frequent meals.
Muscle/joint pain (Common (10-20%))
Use over-the-counter pain relievers if approved by your doctor.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe neutropenia (Common (20-30%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop fever, chills, or sore throat.
Severe allergic reaction (Uncommon (<5%))
Get emergency help if you experience rash, swelling, difficulty breathing.
Cardiotoxicity (Rare (<1%))
Report chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or shortness of breath immediately.
Severe peripheral neuropathy (Uncommon (5-10%))
Inform your doctor if you have difficulty walking or using your hands.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Interstitial lung disease
Seek immediate care for new or worsening cough or shortness of breath.
Vision disturbances
Report any changes in vision to your doctor promptly.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Ketoconazole Major
Gemfibrozil Major
Warfarin Moderate
Live vaccines Moderate
Grapefruit juice Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole)
  • CYP2C8 inhibitors (e.g., gemfibrozil)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Live vaccines

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase the risk of liver toxicity and worsen side effects such as nausea and fatigue. It is advisable to avoid alcohol during treatment.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Severe hypersensitivity to paclitaxel or albumin","Baseline neutrophil count < 1,500 cells/mm³","Severe hepatic impairment","Pregnancy (unless potential benefit justifies risk)","Breastfeeding"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Administer only under supervision of qualified oncologist.","Premedication may not be required but hypersensitivity reactions can occur.","Bone marrow suppression is common; monitor blood counts regularly.","Peripheral neuropathy may be dose-limiting; report symptoms promptly.","Avoid live vaccines during therapy.","Use effective contraception during and after treatment."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

It is not known whether paclitaxel is excreted in human milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, breastfeeding should be discontinued during treatment and for at least 2 weeks after the last dose.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine may cause severe bone marrow suppression, peripheral neuropathy, and mucositis. There is no specific antidote. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic, with close monitoring of blood counts and organ function. In case of suspected overdose, contact emergency medical services immediately.

⏰ Missed Dose

This medicine is administered by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting. If a scheduled dose is missed, contact your oncology team immediately to reschedule. Do not attempt to self-administer.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

This medicine must only be administered by a qualified healthcare professional in a clinical setting equipped to manage chemotherapy side effects. Regular blood tests are required to monitor blood cell counts, liver function, and kidney function. Patients should avoid contact with people who have active infections and practice good hygiene to reduce infection risk. Effective contraception is advised for both men and women during treatment and for several months afterward, as this medicine can harm a developing fetus. Avoid live vaccines during treatment. Inform your doctor of all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, as interactions can occur. Do not breastfeed while receiving this medicine. Report any signs of infection, unusual bleeding, or severe allergic reactions immediately.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more susceptible to side effects such as neuropathy, bone marrow suppression, and cardiac toxicity. Dose selection should be cautious, and monitoring should be more frequent.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

This medicine can harm a developing fetus. Women should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after the last dose. Men should also use contraception for at least 3 months after treatment. Discuss pregnancy planning with your doctor before starting treatment.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may impair wound healing due to its effects on cell division. Inform your surgeon if you are receiving this medicine. Timing of surgery should be discussed with your oncologist.

🦷 Dental Procedures

This medicine can increase the risk of bleeding and infection. Inform your dentist that you are receiving this medicine. Dental procedures may need to be postponed until blood counts recover.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
🥗
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
😴
Get adequate rest and gentle exercise as tolerated.
💧
Avoid crowds and people with infections.
🧘
Practice good hand hygiene.
🌞
Use sunscreen to protect sensitive skin.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Exercise may need to be modified based on fatigue and neuropathy. Gentle activities like walking or swimming are encouraged, but avoid activities that could cause injury if you have numbness or balance issues.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include protein-rich foods to support healing.
Eat small, frequent meals to manage nausea.
Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice.
Limit alcohol consumption.
Stay hydrated with water and clear fluids.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

Fatigue and neuropathy may affect your ability to work or drive. Adjust your schedule as needed and discuss with your employer about accommodations. Avoid operating heavy machinery if you feel dizzy or fatigued.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop treatment without consulting your oncologist. Treatment may be stopped or adjusted based on disease progression, severe side effects, or other medical reasons. Always follow your doctor's guidance.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term effects may include persistent peripheral neuropathy, cardiac toxicity, and secondary cancers. Regular follow-up with your oncologist is essential to monitor for late effects. Report any new or worsening symptoms promptly.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Other chemotherapy agents

Docetaxel or conventional paclitaxel may be alternatives.

Evidence: Well-established
Targeted therapy

For certain breast cancers, targeted therapies may be used.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

Live vaccines should be avoided during treatment due to the risk of infection. Inactivated vaccines may be given, but response may be reduced. Consult your doctor before any vaccination.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C

❌ DON'T

Do not freeze

✅ DO

Keep in original carton to protect from light

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Use immediately after reconstitution

❌ DON'T

Do not store reconstituted solution for long periods

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

This medicine is administered in a clinical setting, so travel should be planned around treatment schedules. If you need to travel, carry a copy of your prescription and medical records. Store vials refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C; use a cooler bag with ice packs during travel. Inform airport security about your medication and carry it in original packaging. Check customs regulations for controlled substances.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 52-year-old woman with metastatic breast cancer
She received this medicine every 3 weeks after failing anthracycline therapy. After 4 cycles, her tumor shrank significantly. She experienced hair loss and mild neuropathy, which were managed with dose adjustment and supportive care.
💡 Lesson: Regular monitoring and timely dose adjustment help manage side effects while maintaining efficacy.
👤 A 65-year-old man with pancreatic cancer
He was started on this medicine in combination with gemcitabine. He experienced fatigue and low blood counts, requiring growth factor support. Despite side effects, his disease stabilized for several months.
💡 Lesson: Combination therapy can be effective but requires close monitoring for cumulative toxicity.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: Clinical response may take several weeks to become evident. Your doctor will monitor your progress with regular scans and tests.

Q: Can I work during treatment?

A: Many patients can continue working, but fatigue and other side effects may require adjustments. Discuss with your doctor.

Q: Is hair loss permanent?

A: Hair loss is usually temporary and regrows after treatment ends.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for pac-nab suspension for injection

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine is a targeted therapy with no side effects.
    Fact: This medicine is a chemotherapy agent and can cause significant side effects, including bone marrow suppression and neuropathy.
  • Myth: This medicine can be taken at home.
    Fact: This medicine must be administered by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Paclitaxel (conventional)

Brand Alternatives

  • Abraxane

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","class":"Albumin-bound taxane","route":"Intravenous","premedication":"Not required","common_side_effects":"Neuropathy, neutropenia, hair loss"},{"medicine":"Conventional paclitaxel","class":"Taxane","route":"Intravenous","premedication":"Required","common_side_effects":"Neuropathy, neutropenia, hair loss, hypersensitivity"}]

😊 Was this information helpful?

Browse Medicines A-Z

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Back to Medicines Directory