The frequency of adverse events associated with the use of paclitaxel or docetaxel respectively were as follows:
infection, 23% and 26%;
febrile neutropenia, 12.5% and 22%;
death associated with infection and febrile neutropenia, 1.0% and 0.8%;
severe neurotoxicity, 7% and 3.5%;
severe fluid retention, 0% and 7%;
and severe arthralgia, myalgia or skin reaction, 16% and 12%.
The response rates for paclitaxel and docetaxel were found to be 21% and 47% respectively. The median duration of response was estimated to be six months, the disease being stable for three months and the one year mortality rate was assumed to be 57%. The response duration rates and mortality rates were assumed to be the same for both drugs. It was assumed that 25% of infections and incidents of febrile neutropenia would require hospitalisation.