Bortezomib: how to take it safely
Velcade
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats multiple myeloma and some lymphomas.
How to take it
It is given by a cancer nurse or doctor, by drip into a vein. Your blood tests are checked before each cycle.
When to take it
Given by injection under the skin or into a vein, on set days each cycle, by a cancer nurse or doctor.
Take it with
Not applicable.
What to avoid
- Not drinking enough fluids. Drink plenty to protect your kidneys.
- Tell your team if you have nerve problems, liver problems or heart problems.
- Alcohol.
- Pregnancy and fathering a child during treatment. Use reliable contraception and ask your team how long to continue it.
- Live vaccines unless your cancer team says so.
- Contact with people who have infections such as chickenpox or flu.
- Alcohol, unless your team says it is safe.
Possible side effects
Nausea, diarrhoea, numbness or tingling in hands and feet, tiredness, low blood counts.
Get help if
Severe numbness, weakness, fever, signs of infection, breathlessness, a swollen painful leg or unusual bleeding: get urgent help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.