Velcade

Generic name:bortezomib [ bor-TEZ-oh-mib ]
Drug class:Proteasome inhibitors

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Mar 28, 2022.

What is Velcade?

Velcade interferes with the growth of some cancer cells and keeps them from spreading in your body.

Velcade is used to treat multiple myeloma and mantle cell lymphoma.

Velcade is sometimes given after other cancer medications have been tried without successful treatment.

Warnings

Velcade may cause a serious viral infection of the brain that can lead to disability or death. Call your doctor right away if you have any change in your mental state, decreased vision, or problems with speech or walking. These symptoms may start gradually and get worse quickly.

Velcade can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections and help your blood to clot. You may get an infection or bleed more easily. Call your doctor if you have unusual bruising or bleeding, or signs of infection (fever, chills, body aches).

Before taking this medicine

You should not be treated with Velcade if you are allergic to bortezomib, mannitol, or boron.

To make sure Velcade is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• nerve problems such as numbness, tingling, or burning pain;

• diabetes;

• liver disease;

• kidney disease, or if you are on dialysis;

• a low level of platelets or white or red blood cells;

• heart disease, congestive heart failure;

• lung disease or breathing problems;