New formulation of Taxotere gets regulatory approval

BRIDGEWATER, N.J. The Food and Drug Administration has approved a new formulation of a chemotherapy drug made by Sanofi-Aventis, the French drug maker said Thursday.

The FDA approved a one-vial version of the drug Taxotere (docetaxel) injection concentrate. The drug is expected to become available in clinics and hospitals nationwide this fall in 80-mg and 20-mg dosages, Sanofi said. The drug is used to treat cancers of the breast, prostate, lungs, head and neck and stomach.

“This new formulation underscores the commitment Sanofi-Aventis has made to Taxotere and to healthcare professionals,” Sanofi VP and oncology business unit head Paul Hawthorne said. “We look forward to adding this formulation of Taxotere to the aresenal of oncology products Sanofi-Aventis offers to the cancer community.”