Bortezomib
Bortezomib is a targeted anticancer medication known as a proteasome inhibitor, used primarily to treat multiple myeloma and mantle cell lymphoma. It works by blocking the 26S proteasome, a cellular complex responsible for breaking down proteins, which disrupts cancer cell function and leads to cancer cell death. This medication is typically administered by subcutaneous or intravenous injection under the supervision of an oncologist.
Bortezomib is a proteasome inhibitor used to treat multiple myeloma and mantle cell lymphoma by disrupting protein regulation in cancer cells.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- L01XG01
- RxNorm
- 358258
- Generic
- Bortezomib
- Class
- atc-l01
- Brands
- Boruzu, Velcade
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- injection
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 1.3 mg/m²
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- twice weekly
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 1.3 mg/m²
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- twice weekly
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 1.3 mg/m²
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- twice weekly
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
10 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
second trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring and ultrasound
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
third trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring and non-stress tests
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
lactation
breastfeedingdiscontinue breastfeeding
bortezomib should not be used during breastfeeding; discontinue nursing for at least 2 months after last dose
not applicable
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
geriatric
elderlyno specific adjustment
no dose adjustment required based on age alone; monitor for increased sensitivity and adverse events
monitor renal and hepatic function; watch for neuropathy and hypotension
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
childrennot established
not recommended for use in patients under 18 years of age due to limited safety and efficacy data
not applicable for pediatric use
renal_impairment
mild moderateno adjustment needed
no dose adjustment required for mild to moderate renal impairment
monitor renal function regularly
renal_impairment
severeno specific adjustment
can be used in patients with severe renal impairment and those on dialysis; administer after dialysis session
monitor renal function and electrolytes closely
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mildno adjustment needed
no dose adjustment required for mild hepatic impairment
hepatic_impairment
moderate severereduce starting dose
reduce starting dose to 0.7 mg/m2 for moderate to severe hepatic impairment; may adjust further based on tolerability
frequent monitoring of liver function and adverse events
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
FDA approval year
FDA approval for Bortezomib (Velcade)
Drug class
ATC classification for Bortezomib
Common uses
Primary therapeutic indications
Mechanism of action
Molecular mechanism of action
Bortezomib is indicated for the treatment of multiple myeloma (both newly diagnosed and relapsed/refractory disease) and mantle cell lymphoma. It may be used as monotherapy or in combination with other chemotherapy agents.
Bortezomib reversibly inhibits the chymotrypsin-like activity of the 26S proteasome, a large protein complex that degrades ubiquitinated proteins. By blocking this pathway, the drug disrupts normal protein regulation in cancer cells, leading to accumulation of misfolded proteins, disruption of cellular processes, and ultimately cancer cell death.
Common side effects include peripheral neuropathy (which may be dose-limiting), thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, fatigue, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Bortezomib is administered by subcutaneous injection (preferred) or intravenous infusion. Treatment requires regular monitoring of blood counts and nerve function. Patients should be advised to report any numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands or feet promptly.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy