Abstract
Multiple myeloma is an incurable malignancy diagnosed for approximately 15,000 individuals in the United States each year. The advances in high-dose chemotherapy and transplantation have improved the overall survival rates and allowed individuals to remain off therapy for longer periods, but relapses are inevitable. The novel proteasome inhibitor, bortezomib, is the first in its class to be approved for patients with relapsed multiple myeloma. This article discusses the proteasome pathway and its role in the regulation of cell growth and survival. During clinical trials, most side effects were manageable with appropriate interventions. The common toxicities are outlined in this article, along with symptom management guidelines for the infusion nurse. The role of the infusion-oncology nurse is vital to ensuring the safe and appropriate administration of bortezomib, and the nurse plays a key role in the ongoing care of these patients.