Expanding role of bortezomib in multiple myeloma: nursing implications

Multiple myeloma is the second most common hematologic malignancy and remains incurable, despite advances in chemotherapy and stem cell transplantation. Bortezomib, a novel proteasome inhibitor, is approved for the treatment of patients with multiple myeloma who have received at least 1 prior therapy. In the assessment of proteasome inhibition for extending remissions phase III trial of bortezomib versus high-dose dexamethasone, bortezomib led to significantly longer survival and time to progression and higher response rate in patients with relapsed multiple myeloma. The principal adverse events were gastrointestinal effects, fatigue, transient thrombocytopenia, and reversible peripheral neuropathy. The side effect profile of bortezomib is extensively characterized, predictable, and generally manageable; retreatment or extended bortezomib therapy seems well tolerated. Nurses play a unique role in bortezomib treatment: they are often closest to the patients and are most able to educate patients about side effects and, if necessary, take appropriate action, independently or collaboratively with healthcare team members. In this review, we present the latest efficacy and safety data for bortezomib in relapsed multiple myeloma and characterize common side effects associated with bortezomib and the implications for nursing. We also highlight practical strategies for preventing and managing side effects, thereby enhancing the clinical benefit of bortezomib-based therapies to patients.