Historical story:

 Paclitaxel, initially named taxol, is a naturally occurring diterpenoid compound extracted from the Pacific yew tree, Taxus brevifolia. The discovery of paclitaxel can be credited to the research endeavors of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Scientists were conducting screenings of plant extracts in search of potential anticancer agents when they discovered the distinctive cytotoxic properties of paclitaxel against cancer cells. The compound's ability to inhibit microtubule depolymerization, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, intrigued researchers and paved the way for extensive investigation 

Used in the treatment of Kaposi's sarcoma and cancer of the lung, ovarian, and breast. Abraxane is specifically indicated for the treatment of metastatic breast cancer and locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer. 

• Before using paclitaxel, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to similar drugs (taxane-type drugs such as docetaxel, and cabazitaxel); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as polyoxyethylated castor oil), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

• Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: blood disorders (such as low white blood cell count), decreased bone marrow function, current infections, heart problems (such as fast/slow/irregular heartbeat), high or low blood pressure, liver disease.

• This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

• Tell your health care professional that you are using paclitaxel before having any immunizations/vaccinations. Avoid contact with people who have recently received live vaccines (such as flu vaccine inhaled through the nose).

• Paclitaxel can make you more likely to get infections or may make current infections worse. Stay away from anyone who has an infection that may easily spread (such as chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, flu). Talk to your doctor if you have been exposed to an infection or for more details.

• To lower the chance of getting cut, bruised, or injured, use caution with sharp objects like safety razors and nail cutters, and avoid activities such as contact sports.

• Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

• This product contains alcohol. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of alcohol, especially drowsiness and confusion.

• Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially the decrease in bone marrow function and numbness/tingling/burning of the hands/feet.

•  Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. You should not become pregnant while using paclitaxel. Paclitaxel may harm an unborn baby. Your doctor should order a pregnancy test before you start this medication. Men and women using this medication should ask about reliable forms of birth control during treatment and for some time afterward. If you or your partner becomes pregnant, talk to your doctor right away about the risks and benefits of this medication.

•  It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Because of the possible risk to the infant, breastfeeding is not recommended while using this drug. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.