What is bortezomib?
Bortezomib interferes with the growth of some cancer cells and keeps them from spreading in your body.
Bortezomib is used to treat multiple myeloma and mantle cell lymphoma.
Bortezomib is sometimes given after other cancer medications have been tried without successful treatment.
Bortezomib may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about bortezomib?
Do not use bortezomib if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.
Bortezomib can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections. Your blood may need to be tested often. Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Avoid activities that may increase your risk of bleeding injury. Tell your doctor at once if you develop signs of infection.
Avoid becoming dehydrated if you have any vomiting or diarrhea. Symptoms of dehydration include dizziness, dry mouth, fainting, or hot and dry skin. Talk with your doctor about how best to keep yourself hydrated.
This medication may cause blurred vision and may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert and able to see clearly.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before receiving bortezomib?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to bortezomib, mannitol, or boron.
To make sure you can safely receive bortezomib, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:
diabetes;
liver disease;
kidney disease, or if you are on dialysis;
a bleeding or blood clotting disorder;
a low level of platelets or white or red blood cells;
heart disease, congestive heart failure;
herpes or a history of shingles;
high or low blood pressure; or
nerve problems such as numbness, burning, pain, or tingly feeling.
FDA pregnancy category D. Do not use bortezomib if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether bortezomib passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while you are using bortezomib.