Bortezomib
About Bortezomib
Bortezomib belongs to a group of anti-cancer medicines used to treat adult patients with multiple myeloma and mantle cell lymphoma who have received at least one prior therapy. Multiple myeloma, also known as myeloma, is a type of bone marrow cancer it affects several areas of the body, such as the spine, skull, pelvis, and ribs. Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). It develops when B-cells (also called B-lymphocytes) become abnormal. B-cells are white blood cells that fight infection.
Bortezomib contains 'Bortezomibx' that works by interfering with how proteasomes work, which may cause cancer cells to die and may stop cancer from growing and eventually kills them.
Bortezomib is prescribed by a doctor experienced in the use of medications to treat cancer. It is administered by a healthcare professional as an injection into your vein (intravenously or IV) or under your skin (subcutaneously or SC). Bortezomib must not be administered into your spinal fluid (intrathecally). You may experience nausea, diarrhoea, thrombocytopenia (a low platelet count), neutropenia (low white blood cell count), peripheral neuropathy (nerves malfunction), fatigue, neuralgia, anaemia, leukopenia, constipation, vomiting, lymphopenia, rash, pyrexia, and anorexia. Most of these side effects of Bortezomib do not require medical attention and gradually resolve over time. However, if the side effects are persistent, reach out to your doctor.
To treat your condition effectually, continue taking Bortezomib for as long as your doctor has prescribed. Do not stop the Bortezomib midway. Talk to your doctor before taking Bortezomib if you have allergies or if you are suffering from peripheral neuropathy (nerves malfunction), hypotension, cardiac disorders, severe lung problems, pulmonary disorders, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, thrombocytopenia (a low platelet count), neutropenia (low white blood cell count), tumour lysis syndrome (metabolic abnormalities that can occur as a complication during the treatment of cancer), hepatic disorders. Avoid taking Bortezomib if you are pregnant or breastfeeding because this Bortezomib can cause harmful effects on the unborn baby. Both women and men using this Bortezomib should use birth control to avoid pregnancy.
Uses of Bortezomib
Medicinal Benefits
Bortezomib contains the active substance bortezomib, also-called ‘proteasome inhibitor. Proteasomes play an important role in controlling cell function and growth. By interfering with their function, thereby it can kill cancer cells. Bortezomib is used to treat multiple myeloma (a cancer of the bone marrow) and mantle cell lymphoma (a type of cancer affecting the lymph nodes) in 18 years or older patients. It can be used alone or together with other medicines.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Bortezomib
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Thrombocytopenia (low blood platelet count)
- Neutropenia (too few neutrophils)
- Peripheral neuropathy (nerves malfunction)
- Fatigue (overtired)
- Neuralgia (pain in the head or face)
- Muscle pain, bone pain
- Anaemia (low red blood cell Count)
- Leukopenia (Low White Blood Cell Count)
- High blood pressure
- Constipation
- Dehydration
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Lymphopenia (Low lymphocytes Count)
- Rash
- Pyrexia (raised body temperature)
- Anorexia (lack or loss of appetite for food)
- Infections, including pneumonia, respiratory infections, bronchitis, fungal infections, coughing with phlegm, flu-like illness
Drug Warnings
To treat your condition effectually, continue taking Bortezomib for as long as your doctor has prescribed. Do not stop the Bortezomib midway. Talk to your doctor before taking Bortezomib if you have allergies or if you are suffering from peripheral neuropathy (nerves malfunction), hypotension, cardiac disorders, severe lung problems, pulmonary disorders, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, thrombocytopenia (a low platelet count), neutropenia (low white blood cell count), tumour lysis syndrome (metabolic abnormalities that can occur as a complication during the treatment of cancer), hepatic disorders. And also, inform your doctor if you have diabetes because this medicine can affect your blood glucose levels. Your doctor may require close monitoring of your blood glucose levels and change your diabetes medicine dose while being treated with Bortezomib. Avoid taking Bortezomib if you are pregnant because this Bortezomib can cause harmful effects on the unborn baby. Both women and men using this Bortezomib should use birth control to avoid pregnancy and for at least six months following treatment. Do not breastfeed during treatment with Bortezomib and four months after your final dose of Bortezomib.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: Bortezomib interacts with antifungal medication (ketoconazole), HIV medication (ritonavir), antibiotic medication (rifampicin), epilepsy medications (carbamazepine, phenytoin or phenobarbital), depression medication (St. John’s Wort), and oral antidiabetics.
Drug-Food Interactions: No food interaction was found.
Drug-Disease Interactions: Inform your doctor before taking Bortezomib; it requires close monitoring if you are suffering from peripheral neuropathy (nerves malfunction), hypotension, cardiac disorders, severe lung problems, pulmonary disorders, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, thrombocytopenia (a low platelet count), neutropenia (low white blood cell count), tumour lysis syndrome (metabolic abnormalities that can occur as a complication during the treatment of cancer), and hepatic disorders.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
cautionYou are recommended to avoid alcohol consumption while taking Bortezomib. It could lead to avoiding unpleasant side effects.
Pregnancy
unsafeBortezomib should not be used during pregnancy because it causes harm to the fetus (newborn baby). Both women of childbearing potential and men must use an effective contraception method while taking Bortezomib and at least six months afterwards. Please discuss with your doctor any concerns regarding this.
Breast Feeding
unsafeBortezomib should not be taken during breastfeeding as it passes into the breastmilk and may harm the nursing baby. It is contraindicated in breastfeeding mothers.
Driving
cautionBortezomib may affect your reactions and your ability to drive. Possible side effects of chemotherapy with Bortezomib may occur, such as nausea and vomiting. If you are affected by these side effects, you should not drive and/or operate machines that require you to be alert.
Liver
cautionIf you have a history or evidence of liver-related diseases, inform the doctor before prescribing the Bortezomib. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and potential risks before prescribing them.
Kidney
cautionIf you have a history or evidence of kidney-related diseases, inform the doctor before prescribing the Bortezomib. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and potential risks before prescribing them.
Children
unsafeBortezomib should not be used by children below 18 years of age, as efficacy and safety have not been established.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly to maintain proper weight.
- Include leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, fatty fish, berries, yoghurt, apples, peaches, cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, beans, and herbs in your diet.
- Get optimal sleep, and rest well.
- Performing yoga may also help in improving both physical and mental health.
- Maintain a healthy weight by performing regular low-strain exercises and eating healthy food.
- De-stress yourself by meditating, reading books, taking a warm bubble bath, or listening to soothing music.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.
- Avoid fast, fried, processed meats, refined carbs, and added sugars.
Special Advise
- Bortezomib should be taken under strict medical supervision. The doctor will regularly monitor your condition while taking Bortezomib.
- Your doctor may get routine blood tests done to monitor your liver function, electrolyte levels, blood cell count in your blood.
- Avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight and UV light (such as tanning booths) and wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Bortezomib may make your skin sensitive to sunlight.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Multiple myeloma, also known as myeloma, is a type of bone marrow cancer it affects several areas of the body, such as the spine, skull, pelvis, and ribs.
Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). It develops when B-cells (also called B-lymphocytes) become abnormal. B-cells are white blood cells that fight infection.
Cancer is a condition where cells in a specific body part grow and reproduce uncontrollably. The cancerous cells can invade and destroy surrounding healthy tissue, including organs.
FAQs
Bortezomib is used to treat multiple myeloma (a cancer of plasma cells) and mantle cell lymphoma (blood cancer).
Bortezomib contains the active substance bortezomib, also-called ‘proteasome inhibitor. Proteasomes play an important role in controlling cell function and growth. By interfering with their function, thereby it can kill cancer cells.
Bortezomib is prescribed by a doctor experienced in the use of medications to treat cancer. It is administered by a healthcare professional as an injection into your vein (intravenously or IV) or under your skin (subcutaneously, or SC). Bortezomib must not be administered into your spinal fluid (intrathecally).
Yes, Bortezomib can cause low neutrophils levels, a type of white blood cells that help fight infections. If your white blood cells become low, you can be at higher risk for infections. Tell your doctor if you develop a fever or believe you have an infection.
Avoid taking Bortezomib if you are pregnant because Bortezomib can cause harmful effects on the unborn baby. Females should follow effective birth control methods during treatment and at least six months after the final dose of Bortezomib.
Before you receive treatment with Bortezomib, tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions. You should not receive Bortezomib if you are allergic to bortezomib or any contents in Bortezomib.
If not given an inappropriate dose, Bortezomib can cause toxic effects, although not everyone gets it. So, Bortezomib is prescribed by a doctor experienced in using medications to treat cancer only.
Bortezomib contains bortezomib as its active substance. It belongs to a group of anti-cancer medicines.
No, Bortezomib does not have any habit-forming potential.
Your doctor decides the dose of Bortezomib based on your medical condition. Taking a double dose can lead to potential side effects.
You should call your doctor right away if you experience side effects like wheezing, chest tightness, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, seizures, or any unusual skin reactions. Also, seek immediate medical help if you have a sudden change in vision, numbness or tingling, severe stomach issues, unexplained bruising or bleeding, or if your symptoms worsen. Always contact your doctor if you notice any concerning changes in your condition.
You will know if Bortezomib is working by noticing improvements in your condition. Regular scans will show if your tumor is reacting to the treatment. Your doctor will decide when these scans should be done. Always follow the doctor's advice as they will monitor your progress to assess its effectiveness.
To minimize the risk of infection while using Bortezomib, maintain good hygiene, wash your hands frequently, and avoid contact with sick people. Protect any open wounds and be cautious with food handling. Take care not to harm yourself when using sharp objects like razor or nail cutters. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles to stop gum bleeding.
Bortezomib may affect your lungs. However, it might cause allergies with symptoms like trouble breathing or chest tightness. If this happens, stop using Bortezomib and get medical attention immediately
Yes, Bortezomib may cause hair loss. If you experience unexpected hair thinning or loss, consult your doctor to avoid potential causes or talk if you have any concerns.
Avoid putting prolonged pressure on your limbs, maintain proper posture, be cautious when moving around and follow your doctor's recommendations for managing the symptoms. If you experience tingling or numbness in your arms or legs, inform your doctor immediately, as these could indicate nerve-related issues.
It is important to avoid prolonged sun exposure and UV light, as Bortezomib can make your skin more sensitive. Wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen to shield your skin. Keep track of your symptoms and consult your doctor to determine if Bortezomib is the cause. Your doctor may adjust your treatment or suggest ways to manage the skin changes. Always follow their advice to ensure the treatment remains safe and effective.
To relieve constipation during treatment, focus on eating more fibre, staying hydrated, and staying active with light exercise. You can also consider using stool softeners after consulting your doctor. Establishing a routine for bowel movements and avoiding strain can also help. Always talk to your healthcare provider before trying new remedies.
You may experience nausea and extreme tiredness due to Bortezomib, as these are among the side effects.These do not require any medical treatment as they will gradually reduce over time. However, please contact a doctor if these persist longer.
If you are experiencing a change in taste while using Bortezomib, try staying hydrated, by using sugar-free gum or mint. Practicing good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth and tongue can also help. If the issue persists, consult your doctor for further advice on managing the side effect.
