Why is this medication prescribed?

Carfilzomib injection is prescribed primarily for the treatment of multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer that affects plasma cells in bone marrow. It is specifically used in patients who have received at least one prior treatment for their multiple myeloma.

Carfilzomib is used to treat multiple myeloma in patients who have relapsed or whose disease has not responded to other treatments. It works by blocking the action of proteasomes, which are enzymes that break down proteins in cells. By inhibiting proteasomes, carfilzomib helps to kill cancer cells and slow the progression of multiple myeloma.

How should this medicine be used?

How should Carfilzomib Injection be used:

• Administration: Carfilzomib is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion, which means it is given directly into a vein. It should only be given under the supervision of a healthcare provider who is experienced in the use of chemotherapy medications.
• Dosage: The dosage and schedule of carfilzomib injections are determined by your doctor based on your individual condition and response to treatment. It is typically given in cycles, with specific days for treatment and rest periods to allow your body to recover.
• Precautions: Before each dose, your healthcare provider will check your blood counts and other vital signs to ensure it is safe to administer carfilzomib. This monitoring helps manage potential side effects and adjust treatment as needed.
• Side Effects: Common side effects of carfilzomib include nausea, fatigue, diarrhea, fever, and low blood cell counts. Your healthcare provider will discuss potential side effects and how to manage them during your treatment.
• Follow-Up: It’s important to attend all scheduled appointments and follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. This helps optimize the effectiveness of carfilzomib and reduces the risk of complications.

Always consult with your healthcare provider or oncologist for specific instructions regarding the use of carfilzomib, as they can provide guidance tailored to your medical history and current condition.

Other uses for this medicine

While carfilzomib is primarily indicated for multiple myeloma, sometimes oncologists may consider its use in clinical trials or off-label for other conditions. However, these uses would be highly specialized and not standard practice.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using carfilzomib, there are several important precautions that healthcare providers and patients should consider:

• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood counts, kidney function, and heart function is essential during treatment with carfilzomib. This helps detect any potential side effects early and allows for appropriate management.
• Heart Problems: Carfilzomib can cause or worsen heart problems, including heart failure and heart rhythm abnormalities. Patients with pre-existing heart conditions may require careful monitoring or adjustments in treatment.
• Blood Clotting: There is an increased risk of blood clotting (thrombosis) with carfilzomib, which can be serious. Patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of blood clots, such as swelling, pain, or redness in the extremities.
• Lung Toxicity: Rarely, carfilzomib can cause lung-related side effects such as shortness of breath or cough. Patients experiencing these symptoms should notify their healthcare provider immediately.
• Liver Function: Liver function should be monitored regularly during treatment with carfilzomib, as it can affect liver enzymes.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Carfilzomib can harm an unborn baby. Therefore, it is important for women of childbearing potential to use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after discontinuation. It is not recommended during breastfeeding.
• Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medications may interact with carfilzomib, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Infusion Reactions: Infusion reactions, including allergic reactions, can occur with carfilzomib. Healthcare providers are trained to manage and minimize these reactions during administration.
• Dose Adjustments: Your doctor may adjust your carfilzomib dose based on your response to treatment and any side effects you experience.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions closely when receiving carfilzomib treatment. They can provide guidance specific to your individual health status and ensure the safest and most effective use of the medication.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated directly with carfilzomib. However, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is generally recommended to support overall health and well-being during cancer treatment. If you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions (such as related to kidney function or heart health), discuss them with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian who can provide personalized guidance.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of carfilzomib injection, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider or oncology team immediately for guidance. They will advise you on the appropriate course of action, which may include rescheduling the missed dose or adjusting your treatment schedule.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Carfilzomib injection, like any medication, can cause side effects. The severity and specific side effects experienced can vary from person to person. Here are some common and serious side effects associated with carfilzomib injection:

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea and Vomiting: These are common side effects that can occur during treatment with carfilzomib. Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to help manage nausea.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak is a frequent side effect of carfilzomib treatment. It’s important to rest and conserve energy as needed.
• Diarrhea or Constipation: Changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation, can occur. Drinking plenty of fluids and eating a balanced diet can help manage these symptoms.
• Fever: Some patients may experience fever as a side effect of carfilzomib. Inform your healthcare provider if you develop a fever during treatment.
• Low Blood Cell Counts: Carfilzomib can reduce the number of blood cells produced by the bone marrow, leading to:
  • Low Platelet Count: Increases the risk of bleeding or bruising.
  • Low White Blood Cell Count: Increases the risk of infections.
  • Low Red Blood Cell Count (Anemia): Causes fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
• Headache: Headaches can occur as a side effect of carfilzomib treatment. Inform your healthcare provider if headaches are severe or persistent.
• Shortness of Breath: Some patients may experience difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, which should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately.

Serious Side Effects (Less Common but Important to Monitor):

• Heart Problems: Carfilzomib can cause or worsen heart problems, including heart failure and heart rhythm abnormalities. Symptoms may include chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling of the ankles or feet, or irregular heartbeat.
• High Blood Pressure: Carfilzomib can increase blood pressure, which may need to be monitored and managed with medications.
• Kidney Problems: Some patients may experience kidney-related side effects, including changes in urine output or swelling in the legs or feet. Kidney function should be monitored during treatment.
• Lung Problems: Rarely, carfilzomib can cause lung-related side effects such as cough or difficulty breathing.
• Liver Problems: Carfilzomib can affect liver function, leading to elevated liver enzymes. Regular monitoring of liver function tests is typically recommended during treatment.
• Infusion Reactions: Allergic reactions or infusion-related reactions can occur during the administration of carfilzomib. Your healthcare provider will monitor you closely during infusions to manage and minimize these risks.
• Blood Clots: There is an increased risk of blood clots (thrombosis) with carfilzomib, which can be serious. Symptoms of blood clots include pain, swelling, warmth, or redness in an arm or leg.

It’s important to communicate any side effects or concerns to your healthcare provider promptly. They can provide guidance on managing side effects and may adjust your treatment plan if needed. Often, medications or supportive care measures can help alleviate symptoms and improve your overall comfort during treatment with carfilzomib.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Carfilzomib Injection:

• Storage: Carfilzomib injection should be stored in its original packaging at room temperature, between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Protect from light.
• Handling: Healthcare providers should handle carfilzomib with caution to avoid exposure. It should be reconstituted and diluted according to manufacturer instructions before administration.
• Disposal: Unused or expired carfilzomib should be disposed of properly. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions or local guidelines for proper disposal of chemotherapy drugs. This typically involves returning unused medications to a pharmacy or designated facility for safe disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency: In case of any severe or life-threatening side effects or reactions during or after administration of carfilzomib, seek immediate medical attention. This includes symptoms like difficulty breathing, severe allergic reactions, chest pain, or sudden swelling.
• Overdose: If you suspect an overdose (taking more than the prescribed dose), contact your healthcare provider, emergency services, or a poison control center immediately. Overdose symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, extreme weakness, or confusion.

What other information should I know?

• Follow-Up: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and assessment during carfilzomib treatment. Regular check-ups are important to evaluate treatment response and manage any potential side effects.
• Compliance: Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding the schedule and administration of carfilzomib. Consistency in treatment is crucial for its effectiveness.
• Supportive Care: Your healthcare provider may recommend supportive care measures to manage side effects, such as medications for nausea, hydration, or dietary adjustments.
• Patient Education: Understand the potential side effects and warning signs associated with carfilzomib. Keep a list of emergency contacts, including your healthcare provider and nearest hospital, in case of need.
• Pregnancy and Contraception: Carfilzomib can harm unborn babies, so effective contraception should be used during treatment and for a period afterward. Discuss family planning with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medications may interact with carfilzomib, affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and specific instructions related to carfilzomib treatment. They can provide tailored advice based on your medical history and individual circumstances.