Often used for:
Multiple myeloma, lymphoma
About bortezomib
Bortezomib is a targeted therapy that blocks or slows down important cell functions, leading to cell death. Patients will have regular blood draws to check blood counts and monitor liver and kidney function.
Possible late effects
- Heart problems
- Lung problems
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Fertility problems
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.
Tips for families
- Discuss all questions and recommendations with your doctor or pharmacist.
- Avoid multivitamins or dietary supplements containing vitamin C within 12 hours before or after taking bortezomib.
- Limit foods high in vitamin C, such as oranges, grapefruit, kiwi, tomatoes, and strawberries, as directed by the care team.
- Avoid products containing green tea while taking bortezomib.
- Bortezomib may affect blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes.
- Drink plenty of fluids and follow the care team's instructions for fluid intake.
- Sexually active patients should prevent pregnancy during treatment and for 6 months after therapy is complete.
- Tell the care team if the patient is pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Caregivers should follow instructions for safe handling, disposal, and avoid contact with patient body fluids for 48 hours after treatment.
