Proper Use

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.

A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine in a medical facility. It is given through a needle placed into one of your veins or as a shot under your skin (usually in the abdomen or thighs).

You may receive medicines to help prevent nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Drink extra fluids while you are using this medicine to keep from getting dehydrated. This could also help you avoid feeling dizzy or lightheaded. You may also receive medicines (eg, dexamethasone, melphalan, prednisone, antivirals) to help prevent unwanted reactions to the injection and decrease the risk of virus infection (eg, herpes zoster) reactivation.

If you are using this medicine for multiple myeloma, it is important to tell your doctor if you have received bortezomib in the past.