Implementation and results of a test dose program with taxanes.

Purpose: A pilot taxane test-dose policy was developed and implemented to determine whether the severity of patient hypersensitivity reaction and drug waste would be reduced.

Patients And Methods: Data from 206 eligible cancer patients undergoing first-dose taxane chemotherapy were analyzed. The severity of hypersensitivity reactions before and after the implementation of taxane test dose was graded (scale 1-4) and analyzed for statistical differences between groups.