Sokeikakketsuto for Taxane‐Induced Peripheral Neuropathic Pain in Patients With Breast Cancer

ABSTRACT Aim Peripheral neuropathic pain (PNP) is a frequent, distressing adverse effect of taxanes. Paclitaxel (PTX)‐induced PNP is well described, but docetaxel (DTX)‐induced PNP has received little attention. Sokeikakketsuto (SOKT) is a Kampo formula for cold‐aggravated musculoskeletal and neuralgic pain with blood stasis; we report its effect on taxane‐induced PNP. Methods Five women with breast cancer and taxane‐induced PNP (predominantly DTX) received SOKT. Effect was graded from the numerical rating scale (NRS). Concordance of each patient's Kampo pattern ( sho ) with the classical sho of SOKT was assessed. Results SOKT was effective in four cases and slightly effective in one; no case worsened. The magnitude of NRS improvement paralleled sho concordance. No adverse effects occurred. Conclusion SOKT relieved taxane‐induced, predominantly DTX‐induced, PNP, with benefit tracking sho concordance. Sho ‐based selection and the qualitative character of the pain may guide Kampo therapy for taxane‐induced PNP.