Bortezomib
Say it: bor-TEZ-oh-mib · Brand names: Velcade, Boruzu
Bortezomib is a cancer medicine that blocks the system cells use to clear out old proteins, which makes myeloma and lymphoma cells die.
What it is
All cells have a recycling system, called the proteasome, that breaks down proteins they no longer need. Bortezomib blocks this system. Myeloma cells make a lot of protein, so the waste builds up and the cancer cells die.
Often used for
- multiple myeloma
- mantle cell lymphoma
How you get it
Bortezomib is usually given as a quick shot under the skin of the belly or thigh at the clinic. It can also be given into a vein (IV). It is often given once or twice a week for a few weeks, followed by a rest week. Your schedule may be different.
Common side effects and what helps
- Numbness, tingling, burning or pain in the hands or feet. Tell your team early, since they can change the plan.
- Nausea, diarrhea or constipation. Eat small meals, drink plenty of fluids, and ask about medicine for these.
- Feeling tired. Rest and short walks can help.
- Low platelets, which can cause easy bruising or bleeding. Your team will check your blood counts.
- Less appetite. Try small meals and snacks through the day.
- Redness or a sore spot where the shot was given. Tell your team if it gets worse.
- Dizziness when standing up. Sit for a minute before you stand, and drink fluids.
Call your care team right away if you have
- A fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher, or chills
- Fainting or feeling very lightheaded
- Shortness of breath, chest pain, or swelling in your legs
- Severe headache, confusion, vision changes or a seizure
- Vomiting or diarrhea that will not stop, or you cannot keep fluids down
- Bleeding that will not stop, black or bloody stools, vomiting blood, or coughing up blood
- A painful blistering rash on one side of the body, which can be a sign of shingles
Before you start, tell your team
- If you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breastfeeding
- If you have nerve problems (neuropathy)
- If you have heart problems, low blood pressure, or have fainted before
- If you have liver problems
- If you have diabetes, since your sugar may change
- All the medicines you take, including vitamins, herbs and supplements
Good to know
- Nerve damage is the most important side effect. Your team will ask about it at each visit and may lower or delay doses.
- Bortezomib can wake up the shingles virus. Most people take an antiviral pill to prevent shingles.
- You will have blood tests to check your platelets and other counts.
- Bortezomib can harm an unborn baby. Use birth control during treatment and for some months after, as your team advises.
Questions to ask
- How often will I get this medicine?
- Should I take an antiviral pill to prevent shingles?
- What should I do if I get numbness or tingling?
- What can I do about nausea or diarrhea?
Part of these treatment plans
Side effect guides
- Fatigue (tiredness)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Appetite loss and weight loss
- Low platelets and bleeding
- Neuropathy (numbness and tingling)
- Pain
Sources
Quick answers
- What is Bortezomib?
- Bortezomib is a cancer medicine that blocks the system cells use to clear out old proteins, which makes myeloma and lymphoma cells die. Brand names: Velcade, Boruzu.
- What is Bortezomib used for?
- multiple myeloma; mantle cell lymphoma.
- How is Bortezomib given?
- Bortezomib is usually given as a quick shot under the skin of the belly or thigh at the clinic. It can also be given into a vein (IV). It is often given once or twice a week for a few weeks, followed by a rest week. Your schedule may be different.
- What are the common side effects of Bortezomib?
- Numbness, tingling, burning or pain in the hands or feet. Nausea, diarrhea or constipation. Feeling tired. Low platelets, which can cause easy bruising or bleeding. Less appetite. Redness or a sore spot where the shot was given. Dizziness when standing up.
- When should I call my care team while taking Bortezomib?
- A fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher, or chills; Fainting or feeling very lightheaded; Shortness of breath, chest pain, or swelling in your legs; Severe headache, confusion, vision changes or a seizure; Vomiting or diarrhea that will not stop, or you cannot keep fluids down; Bleeding that will not stop, black or bloody stools, vomiting blood, or coughing up blood; A painful blistering rash on one side of the body, which can be a sign of shingles.
- Which chemotherapy plans include Bortezomib?
- CyBorD, DVd, PBD, RVd (VRd), Vd, VTd.
Last updated: 2026-10-27. Medically reviewed by Veli Bakalov, MD, medical oncologist (October 2026). General education from Step by Step, the patient portal of HemeOncBuddy.