Carfilzomib is a medication used to treat multiple myeloma, a type of cancer that affects plasma cells. It is a proteasome inhibitor, which means it works by blocking the action of proteasomes, enzymes that break down proteins in cells.
Here are 10 things you need to know about carfilzomib myeloma:
- How it works: Carfilzomib works by blocking proteasomes, which can help slow or stop the growth of cancer cells.
- Administration: Carfilzomib is typically given as an intravenous infusion, meaning it is injected directly into a vein.
- Side effects: Common side effects of carfilzomib may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, and low blood cell counts.
- Monitoring: Patients taking carfilzomib may need to have regular blood tests to monitor their blood cell counts and liver function.
- Drug interactions: Carfilzomib may interact with other medications, so it is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Carfilzomib can harm an unborn baby, so it should not be used during pregnancy. It is also not known if carfilzomib passes into breast milk, so breastfeeding is not recommended while taking this medication.
- Effectiveness: Carfilzomib has been shown to be effective in treating multiple myeloma, particularly in patients who have not responded to other treatments.
- Cost: Carfilzomib can be expensive, so it is important to check with your insurance provider to see if it is covered under your plan.
- Duration of treatment: The duration of treatment with carfilzomib can vary depending on the individual patient and their response to the medication.
- Follow-up care: After completing treatment with carfilzomib, patients may need to have regular follow-up appointments to monitor their condition and watch for any signs of recurrence.