Bortezomib is used to treat multiple myeloma and mantle cell lymphoma.
Bortezomib may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
uses
What is Velcade (Bortezomib) used for?
- Lymphoma
- Multiple Myeloma
warnings
What is the most important information I should know about Velcade (Bortezomib)?
You should not be treated with this medicine if you are allergic to bortezomib, mannitol, or boron.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- nerve problems such as numbness, tingling, or burning pain;
- diabetes;
- liver disease;
- kidney disease, or if you are on dialysis;
- a low level of platelets or white or red blood cells;
- heart disease, congestive heart failure;
- lung disease or breathing problems;
- herpes or shingles (herpes zoster);
- high or low blood pressure; or
- if you are dehydrated.
You may need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting this treatment.
Bortezomib can harm an unborn baby or cause birth defects if the mother or the father is using this medicine.
- If you are a woman, do not use bortezomib if you are pregnant. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using this medicine and for at least 7 months after your last dose.
- If you are a man, use effective birth control if your sex partner is able to get pregnant. Keep using birth control for at least 4 months after your last dose.
- Tell your doctor right away if a pregnancy occurs while either the mother or the father is using bortezomib.
This medicine may affect fertility (ability to have children) in both men and women. However, it is important to use birth control to prevent pregnancy because bortezomib may harm the baby if a pregnancy does occur.
You should not breastfeed while using this medicine and for at least 2 months after your last dose.
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Side Effects
What are the side effects of Velcade (Bortezomib)?
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Bortezomib may cause a serious viral infection of the brain that can lead to disability or death. Call your doctor right away if you have a severe headache, buzzing in your ears, vision problems, weakness, confusion, thinking problems, or a seizure (convulsions).
Also call your doctor at once if you have:
- new or worsening nerve problems such as numbness, burning, pain, weakness, or tingly feeling;
- a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
- severe or ongoing nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation;
- fever with shortness of breath or trouble breathing;
- dehydration symptoms–feeling very thirsty or hot, being unable to urinate, heavy sweating, or hot and dry skin;
- low blood cell counts–fever, chills, tiredness, flu-like symptoms, mouth sores, skin sores, easy bruising, unusual bleeding, pale skin, cold hands and feet, feeling light-headed or short of breath;
- liver problems–right-sided stomach pain, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);
- signs of congestive heart failure–shortness of breath (even with mild exertion), swelling in your lower legs, rapid weight gain, cough with mucus, fast heartbeats, sleep problems; or
- signs of tumor cell breakdown–muscle cramps, tiredness, fast or slow heart rate, fluttering in your chest, decreased urination, tingling around your mouth.
Your cancer treatments may be delayed or permanently discontinued if you have certain side effects.
Common side effects may include:
- numbness or tingly feeling;
- loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting;
- diarrhea, constipation;
- fever, chills, cold or flu symptoms;
- rash; or
- feeling tired.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Can I take Velcade (Bortezomib) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
You may need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting this treatment.
You should not breastfeed while using this medicine and for at least 2 months after your last dose.
Interactions
What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Velcade (Bortezomib)?
Avoid becoming dehydrated if you have any vomiting or diarrhea. Talk with your doctor about how best to keep yourself hydrated.
Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Tell your doctor at once if you develop signs of infection.
This medicine may cause blurred vision and may impair your reactions. Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you.
Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy.
Dosage Guidelines & Tips
How to take Velcade (Bortezomib)?
Use Velcade (Bortezomib) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Bortezomib is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
You may be given medication to prevent nausea or vomiting while you are receiving bortezomib.
Bortezomib can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections and help your blood to clot. Your blood will need to be tested often. Your cancer treatments may be delayed based on the results of these tests.
Your liver function and nerve function may also need to be checked.
Call your doctor for instructions if you will miss an appointment for your bortezomib injection.
Overdose Signs
What happens if I overdose on Velcade (Bortezomib)?
(800) 222-1222
911