Taxotere was sold in Europe before it was introduced in the U.S. and the European version of the F.D.A. ordered Sanofi-Aventis to place the “Permanent Hair Loss” warning on the box and the advertising materials in Europe. And yet, Sano-Aventis chose not to place this warning on any of the Taxotere advertising materials or the box containing the drug when they introduced it in the U.S. even though they were obviously aware of the RISK of Permanent Hair Loss.
How long have #Sanofi known about the devastating side effect of permanent alopeica from #Taxotere? I have proof that it's been at least 11 years. #pharma #breastcancer
— S.A.Ledlie (@SALedlie) December 7, 2017
The selection of Taxotere over Taxol would not have been important except for the fact that Taxotere causes Permanent Hair Loss (Alopecia) in up to 12% of women according to some studies. Taxol does not cause Permanent Hair Loss in any noticeable numbers. Doctors should have been informed of the Alopecia risks in order that they could inform their patients.
Woman suffering #breastcancer and prescribed #Taxotere have a right to be informed. https://t.co/otEi84Illd
— S.A.Ledlie (@SALedlie) December 7, 2017