Bortezomib treatment for multiple myeloma.
OBJECTIVE
To review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and place of bortezomib in the therapy of multiple myeloma (MM).


METHODS
A MEDLINE search was conducted (1985-May 2003). Meeting abstracts, bibliographies from identified articles, and the package insert were also used. Search terms were bortezomib, multiple myeloma, Velcade, PS-341, LDP-341, MLNM341, and proteasome inhibitor.


METHODS
All published information relevant to the clinical activity of bortezomib in MM was considered. All human clinical studies, with an emphasis on Phase II trials, were selected.


RESULTS
Current therapy for MM yields significant, although temporary, responses. Bortezomib is a novel anticancer agent with significant activity in relapsed and refractory MM.


CONCLUSIONS
Although the clinical trial data are incomplete, bortezomib offers a novel therapeutic modality for patients with MM who would otherwise have few options.
Stanford
Brad L
BL
School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA. brad.stanford@ttuhsc.edu
Zondor
Stacey D
SD
D000818:Animals; D001897:Boronic Acids / Q000493:pharmacokinetics* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000069286:Bortezomib; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006801:Humans; D009101:Multiple Myeloma / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000378:metabolism*; D011719:Pyrazines / Q000493:pharmacokinetics* / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D001897:Boronic Acids; D011719:Pyrazines; D000069286:Bortezomib