US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Ixempra (ixabepilone, manufactured by Bristol-Myers Squibb) for combination treatment with capecitabine (brand name Xeloda, manufactured by Roche) and single-agent monotherapy for treating metastatic or locally advanced breast cancer that has not responded to other chemotherapy (doxorubicin, epirubicin, paclitaxel, or docetaxel). Ixempra belongs to a class of chemical called epothilones and work by binding to cancer cell microtubules, which interferes with cell division. Since Ixempra is in a Cremophor vehicle (same used for Taxol), those allergic to Cremophor or related chemicals should not take Ixempra. Side effects include peripheral neuropathy (numbness, tingling or burning in the hands or feet), bone marrow suppression, constipation, nausea, vomiting, muscle paint, joint pain, fatigue and general weakness. Source: US FDA. Visit drug website.