Bortezomib Injection (BORTEZOMIB - INJECTION)

Instructions

This medicine should only be used by a person who has been trained to recognize when and how it should be used.

Drink extra water while on this medicine. Adults should try to drink 6-8 cups (48 to 64 oz.) of water every day.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Your doctor may prescribe other medications to reduce side effects. Follow instructions carefully.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

This medicine has been associated with a rare but serious skin rash. If you notice any red, peeling or blistered skin, contact your doctor immediately.

Some patients on this medicine have developed severe, life-threatening infections. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

This medicine may cause bleeding from the stomach or bowels. Stop this medicine and call your doctor right away if you have pain in the stomach, red or dark tarry stools, or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.

This medicine is associated with a rare, but serious problem of the liver. Speak to your doctor about the early signs of liver problems and the benefits and risks of using this medicine.

There is an increased risk of bleeding while on this medicine, please tell your doctor or nurse if you notice any excessive bleeding or bruising.

This medicine may cause dizziness or fainting. Do not stand or sit up quickly.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Speak with your doctor before taking any medicine with aspirin.

Do not drink beverages with alcohol while on this medicine.

Contact your doctor if you notice a change in the amount or darkening of your urine.

Call the doctor if there are any signs of confusion or unusual changes in behavior.

This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine. You may safely start breastfeeding 2 months after stopping treatment.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

Women must use reliable forms of birth control while taking this medicine and for 7 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Men with a female partner who is of childbearing age must use a condom during sexual activity while taking this medicine and for 4 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

• decreased appetite
• constipation or diarrhea
• dizziness
• lack of energy and tiredness
• pain, redness, swelling near injection
• nausea and vomiting
• weakness

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

• back pain
• chest pain
• coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• severe, watery or bloody diarrhea
• swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
• fainting
• numbness or tingling in hands and feet
• severe or persistent headache
• muscle cramps or weakness
• small red, purple or brown spots on the skin
• red, burning, or itchy skin
• seizures
• shortness of breath
• dark, tarry stool
• symptoms of stroke (such as one-sided weakness, slurred speech, confusion)
• difficulty or discomfort urinating
• urinating less often
• blood in urine
• blurring or changes of vision
• severe or persistent vomiting

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.