Does nab-paclitaxel have a higher incidence of peripheral neuropathy than solvent-based paclitaxel? Evidence from a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy is a common reason for dose reduction or early cessation of therapy. Nab-paclitaxel was developed to provide additional clinical benefits and overcome the safety drawbacks of solvent-based paclitaxel. However, the incidence of peripheral neuropathy induced by nab-paclitaxel was reported higher than solvent-based paclitaxel but evidence remains inconsistent. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis to compare the incidence and severity of peripheral neuropathy between nab-paclitaxel and solvent-based paclitaxel mono-chemotherapy. In total, 24 articles were included in this meta-analysis. Results revealed the incidence of peripheral neuropathy induced by nab-paclitaxel was higher than solvent-based paclitaxel. The dosage and assessment method could influence the comparison of the incidence and severity of peripheral neuropathy between nab-paclitaxel and solvent-based paclitaxel. Current evidence suggests the incidence of peripheral neuropathy induced by nab-paclitaxel was higher than solvent-based paclitaxel among cancer patients received mono-chemotherapy. When received nab-paclitaxel, more attention should be paid to peripheral neuropathy.