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Physicians are advised to discuss the following with patients prior to treatment with VELCADE:

Ability to Drive or Operate Machinery or Impairment of Mental Ability

VELCADE may cause fatigue, dizziness, syncope, orthostatic/postural hypotension. Advise patients not to drive or operate machinery if they experience any of these symptoms.

Dehydration/Hypotension

Patients receiving VELCADE therapy may experience vomiting and/or diarrhea. Advise patients how to avoid dehydration. Instruct patients to seek medical advice if they experience symptoms of dizziness, light headedness or fainting spells.

Pregnancy/Nursing

Advise patients to use effective contraceptive measures to prevent pregnancy during treatment with VELCADE. Instruct patients to report pregnancy to their physicians immediately. Advise patients that they should not receive VELCADE while pregnant or breast-feeding. If a patient wishes to restart breastfeeding after treatment, she should be advised to discuss the appropriate timing with her physician.

Concomitant Medications

Advise patients to speak with their physicians about any other medication they are currently taking.

Diabetic Patients

Advise patients to check their blood sugar frequently if using an oral antidiabetic medication and to notify their physicians of any changes in blood sugar level.

Peripheral Neuropathy

Advise patients to contact their physicians if they experience new or worsening symptoms of peripheral neuropathy such as tingling, numbness, pain, a burning feeling in the feet or hands, or weakness in the arms or legs.

Other

Instruct patients to contact their physicians if they develop a rash, experience shortness of breath, cough, or swelling of the feet, ankles, or legs, convulsion, persistent headache, reduced eyesight, an increase in blood pressure or blurred vision.

Last reviewed on RxList: 2/6/2012
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.