GENERIC NAME: BORTEZOMIB - INJECTION (bor-TEZ-oh-mib)
BRAND NAME(S): Velcade
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
USES: This medication is a cancer chemotherapy drug used to treat certain types of tumors (e.g., multiple myeloma). It blocks certain proteins which helps to slow the growth and spread of the cancer.
HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection into a vein (IV) by a healthcare professional. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Follow all directions for proper mixing. Before using, check this medication visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. If you have questions regarding the use of this medication, consult the pharmacist. It is important to drink plenty of fluids while you are being treated with this drug to prevent becoming dehydrated. Read the Patient Information Leaflet that comes with this drug, and consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, constipation, tiredness, weakness, or blurred vision may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: easy bruising or bleeding, tingling/numbness/pain/burning feeling of the hands or feet (peripheral neuropathy), fainting. This medication can lower your body's ability to fight an infection. Notify your doctor promptly if you develop any signs of an infection such as fever, chills, or persistent sore throat. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: stomach pain, black stools, coffee-ground vomit, trouble breathing, swelling or pain in the lower legs, fast/irregular heartbeat, chest pain, one-sided weakness, vision problems, slurred speech, mental/mood changes (e.g., rarely, thoughts of suicide), seizures, change in the amount of urine. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Multiple Myeloma - Learn more about multiple myeloma, a form of cancer that develops in plasma cells, the white blood cells that make antibodies. Symptoms include bone pain, weakness, extreme thirst, nausea, frequent urination, and broken bones. Treatment of multiple myeloma depends upon the staging and symptoms of the disease.
- Cancer - Learn about cancer types, disease statistics, facts, and survival rates, and get information about how malignant tumors (cancerous growths) metastasize or spread.
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