What is the most important information I should know about bortezomib?

Bortezomib should only be administered under the supervision
of a qualified healthcare provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic
agents.nochild Because bortezomib is known to cause birth
defects in an unborn baby, women of childbearing age should not become
pregnant during treatment.
dizzy Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other
hazardous activities. bortezomib may cause drowsiness, dizziness, fainting,
or blurred or double vision. If you experience any of these side effects,
avoid hazardous activities.

Dizziness may be more likely to occur when rising from sitting or lying
down. Rise slowly to minimize dizziness and prevent a possible fall.

Treatment with bortezomib may cause dehydration due to vomiting and/or
diarrhea. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for maintaining
adequate fluid intake to reduce the chance of dehydration. Contact your
healthcare provider if you experience dizziness, light headedness, or
fainting, as these may be signs of dehydration.

Peripheral neuropathy (nerve problems) is one of the potential side effects
of treatment with bortezomib. Contact your healthcare provider immediately
if you experience new or worsening symptoms of peripheral neuropathy such
as burning sensation, numbness, increased or decreased sensation, pain,
or discomfort.

Bortezomib can lower the activity of the immune system
making you susceptible to infections. Avoid contact with people who have
colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses and do not receive vaccines
that contain live strains of a virus (e.g., live oral polio vaccine) during
treatment with bortezomib. In addition, avoid contact
with individuals who have recently been vaccinated with a live vaccine.
There is a chance that the virus can be passed on to you. Contact your
doctor if you develop fever, chills, sore throat, or other symptoms of
a cold or flu or painful or difficult urination.

What is bortezomib?

Bortezomib interferes with the growth of some cancer
cells.

Bortezomib is used in the treatment of the blood cancer
multiple myeloma.

Bortezomib may also be used for purposes other than
those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking bortezomib?
donot Do not take bortezomib without first talking to your doctor if you
have

* an allergy or sensitivity to bortezomib, boron, or mannitol;
* liver disease;
* kidney disease;
* a bleeding or blood clotting disorder;
* a low level of platelets or white or red blood cells;
* a history of low blood pressure or if you are taking medicine to lower
blood pressure; or
* peripheral neuropathy (nerve problems such as burning sensation, numbness,
increased or decreased sensation, pain, or discomfort).

You may not be able to take bortezomib, or you may require a dosage adjustment
or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions
listed above.
nopreg bortezomib is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that
it is known to be harmful to an unborn baby.Do not take this medication
if you are pregnant. Pregnancy should be avoided during treatment with
bortezomib.
nobrfeed It is not known whether bortezomib passes into breast milk. Do
not take bortezomib without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding
a baby.

How should I take bortezomib?

Bortezomib should only be administered under the supervision
of a qualified healthcare provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic
agents.

Bortezomib is administered by intravenous injection
(into a vein). It is usually administered in a hospital or clinic setting
by a healthcare professional.

Your doctor will determine the correct amount and frequency of treatment
with bortezomib depending upon the type of cancer being treated and other
factors. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns regarding
the treatment schedule.

Your doctor will probably want you to have blood tests and other medical
evaluations during treatment with bortezomib to monitor progress and side
effects.

Your healthcare provider will store bortezomib as directed by the manufacturer.
If you are storing bortezomib at home, follow the directions provided
by your healthcare provider.

What happens if I miss a dose?

It is important not to miss a dose of bortezomib. Contact your doctor
if you are unable to keep an appointment.

What happens if I overdose?
emt Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose of bortezomib is suspected.

Symptoms of a bortezomib overdose are not known.

What should I avoid while taking bortezomib?
dizzy Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other
hazardous activities. bortezomib may cause drowsiness, dizziness, fainting,
or blurred or double vision. If you experience any of these side effects,
avoid hazardous activities.

Dizziness may be more likely to occur when rising from sitting or lying
down. Rise slowly to minimize dizziness and prevent a possible fall.

Treatment with bortezomib may cause dehydration due to vomiting and/or
diarrhea. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for maintaining
adequate fluid intake to reduce the chance of dehydration. Contact your
healthcare provider if you experience dizziness, light headedness, or
fainting, as these may be signs of dehydration.

Tell your doctor and dentist that you are taking bortezomib before having
surgery or dental work. You may bleed more easily or be more likely to
get an infection while taking bortezomib.

Bortezomib can lower the activity of the immune system
making you susceptible to infections. Avoid contact with people who have
colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses and do not receive vaccines
that contain live strains of a virus (e.g., live oral polio vaccine) during
treatment with bortezomib. In addition, avoid contact
with individuals who have recently been vaccinated with a live vaccine.
There is a chance that the virus can be passed on to you. Contact your
doctor if you develop fever, chills, sore throat, or other symptoms of
a cold or flu or painful or difficult urination.

What are the possible side effects of bortezomib?
emt If you experience any of the following serious side effects, seek
emergency medical attention or contact your doctor as soon as possible:

* an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; closing of the throat;
difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips, face, or tongue; or hives);
* unusual bruising or bleeding, nosebleeds, pinpoint red spots on the
skin, or black, bloody or tarry stools (may be signs of low platelets
in the blood);
* new or worsening nerve problems such as a burning sensation, numbness,
increased or decreased sensation, pain, or discomfort (may indicate peripheral
neuropathy);
* fever, chills, sore throat, other symptoms of a cold or flu or painful
or difficult urination (may indicate an infection);
* fainting;
* diarrhea or vomiting; or
* a skin rash.

Other less serious side effects may occur more frequently. Continue to
take bortezomib and talk to your doctor if you experience:

* nausea or decreased appetite;
* anxiety;
* headache;
* blurred or double vision;
* dizziness or light headedness;
* tiredness or weakness; or
* muscle or bone pain.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your
doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially
bothersome.

What other drugs will affect bortezomib?

Many medications may interact with bortezomib. Do not take any other
prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals,
and herbal supplements, without first talking to your healthcare provider.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist has additional information about bortezomib written for
health professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?

Bortezomib is available with a prescription under the
brand name Velcade. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available.
Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially
if it is new to you.