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Bortezomib

Targeted Therapy

Brand names:

Velcade®

Often used for:

Multiple myeloma, lymphoma

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About bortezomib

Bortezomib is a type of medicine called targeted therapy. It acts to block or slow down important cell functions, leading to cell death. 

Patients will have regular blood draws to check blood counts and monitor liver and kidney function.

Brain

May be given as a liquid into a vein by IV

 
Brain

May be given as a liquid under the skin (subcutaneous)

 
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Possible side effects

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Fever
  • Constipation
  • Numbness or tingling of the hands or feet
  • Low blood counts (may cause increased risk of infection, bleeding, anemia and/or fatigue)
  • Abdominal pain
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache
  • Skin irritation at the IV site

Not all patients who take bortezomib will experience these side effects. Common side effects are in bold, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

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Possible late effects

Some patients may experience long-term or late effects of treatment that may continue or develop months or years after treatment ends. Possible late effects due to bortezomib include:

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Tips for families

Be sure to discuss these and other recommendations with your doctor or pharmacist.

  • Patients should not take multivitamins or other dietary supplements containing vitamin C (ascorbic acid) within 12 hours before or after taking bortezomib.
  • While taking this medicine, patients should not have more than the recommended daily intake of vitamin C. The care team may recommend that patients limit foods high in vitamin C such as oranges, grapefruit, kiwi, tomatoes, and strawberries.
  • Patients should avoid products containing green tea while taking bortezomib.
  • Bortezomib may affect blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes.
  • While taking bortezomib, it is important to drink plenty of fluids. Patients should follow the care team’s instructions for appropriate fluid intake.
  • Sexually active patients should take steps to prevent pregnancy during treatment and for 6 months after completion of therapy.
  • Patients should tell their doctor if they are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Caregivers should follow instructions for safe handling and disposal of the medicine and avoid contact with patient body fluids which can contain the drug for 48 hours after it is given.

Bortezomib resources

Learn more about bortezomib

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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.