bortezomib injection 3.5 MG VIAL Dosage and Administration

(bortezomib for injection)

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

2.1 Important Dosing Guidelines

Bortezomib for injection is for intravenous or subcutaneous use only. Do not administer bortezomib for injection by any other route.

Because each route of administration has a different reconstituted concentration, use caution when calculating the volume to be administered.

The recommended starting dose of bortezomib for injection is 1.3 mg/m2. Bortezomib for injection is administered intravenously at a concentration of 1 mg/mL, or subcutaneously at a concentration of 2.5 mg/mL [see Dosage and Administration (2.10)].

Bortezomib for injection retreatment may be considered for patients with multiple myeloma who had previously responded to treatment with bortezomib for injection and who have relapsed at least six months after completing prior bortezomib for injection treatment. Treatment may be started at the last tolerated dose [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)].

When administered intravenously, administer bortezomib for injection as a 3 to 5 second bolus intravenous injection.

2.2 Dosage in Previously Untreated Multiple Myeloma

Bortezomib for injection is administered in combination with oral melphalan and oral prednisone for 9, six week treatment cycles as shown in Table 1. In Cycles 1 to 4, bortezomib for injection is administered twice weekly (Days 1, 4, 8, 11, 22, 25, 29 and 32). In Cycles 5 to 9, bortezomib for injection is administered once weekly (Days 1, 8, 22 and 29). At least 72 hours should elapse between consecutive doses of bortezomib for injection.

Table 1: Dosage Regimen for Patients with Previously Untreated Multiple Myeloma
Twice Weekly Bortezomib for Injection (Cycles 1 to 4)
Week123456
Bortezomib for Injection
(1.3 mg/m2)
Day 1----Day 4Day 8Day 11rest periodDay 22Day 25Day 29Day 32rest period
Melphalan (9 mg/m2)
Prednisone (60 mg/m2)
Day 1Day 2Day 3Day 4----rest period--------rest period
Once Weekly Bortezomib for Injection (Cycles 5 to 9 when used in combination with Melphalan and Prednisone)
Week123456
Bortezomib for Injection
(1.3 mg/m2)
Day 1----Day 8rest periodDay 22Day 29rest period
Melphalan (9 mg/m2)
Prednisone (60 mg/m2)
Day 1Day 2Day 3Day 4----rest period--------rest period

2.3 Dose Modification Guidelines for Bortezomib for Injection When Given in Combination with Melphalan and Prednisone

Prior to initiating any cycle of therapy with bortezomib for injection in combination with melphalan and prednisone:

  • Platelet count should be at least 70 × 109/L and the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) should be at least 1 × 109/L
  • Nonhematological toxicities should have resolved to Grade 1 or baseline
Table 2: Dose Modifications During Cycles of Combination Bortezomib for Injection, Melphalan and Prednisone Therapy
ToxicityDose Modification or Delay
Hematological toxicity during a cycle:
If prolonged Grade 4 neutropenia or thrombocytopenia, or thrombocytopenia with bleeding is observed in the previous cycle
Consider reduction of the melphalan dose by 25% in the next cycle
If platelet count is not above 30 × 109/L or ANC is not above 0.75 × 109/L on a bortezomib for injection dosing day (other than Day 1)Withhold bortezomib for injection dose
If several bortezomib for injection doses in consecutive cycles are withheld due to toxicityReduce bortezomib for injection dose by one dose level (from 1.3 mg/m2 to 1 mg/m2, or from 1 mg/m2 to 0.7 mg/m2)
Grade 3 or higher nonhematological toxicitiesWithhold bortezomib for injection therapy until symptoms of toxicity have resolved to Grade 1 or baseline. Then, bortezomib for injection may be reinitiated with one dose level reduction (from 1.3 mg/m2 to 1 mg/m2, or from 1 mg/m2 to 0.7 mg/m2). For bortezomib for injection-related neuropathic pain and/or peripheral neuropathy, hold or modify bortezomib for injection as outlined in Table 5.

For information concerning melphalan and prednisone, see manufacturer's prescribing information.

Dose modifications guidelines for peripheral neuropathy are provided [see Dosage and Administration (2.7)].

2.4 Dosage in Previously Untreated Mantle Cell Lymphoma

Bortezomib (1.3 mg/m2) is administered intravenously in combination with intravenous rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin and oral prednisone (VcR-CAP) for 6, three week treatment cycles as shown in Table 3. Bortezomib is administered first followed by rituximab. Bortezomib is administered twice weekly for two weeks (Days 1, 4, 8, and 11) followed by a ten day rest period on Days 12 to 21. For patients with a response first documented at Cycle 6, two additional VcR-CAP cycles are recommended. At least 72 hours should elapse between consecutive doses of bortezomib.

Table 3: Dosage Regimen for Patients with Previously Untreated Mantle Cell Lymphoma Twice Weekly Bortezomib (6, Three Week Cycles)*
Week123
*
Dosing may continue for two more cycles (for a total of eight cycles) if response is first seen at Cycle 6.
Bortezomib (1.3 mg/m2) Day 1----Day 4--Day 8Day 11rest period
Rituximab (375 mg/m2)
Cyclophosphamide (750 mg/m2)
Doxorubicin (50 mg/m2)
Day 1--------rest period
Prednisone (100 mg/m2) Day 1Day 2Day 3Day 4Day 5----rest period

2.5 Dose Modification Guidelines for Bortezomib When Given in Combination with Rituximab, Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin and Prednisone

Prior to the first day of each cycle (other than Cycle 1):

  • Platelet count should be at least 100 × 109/L and absolute neutrophil count (ANC) should be at least 1.5 × 109/L
  • Hemoglobin should be at least 8 g/dL (at least 4.96 mmol/L)
  • Nonhematologic toxicity should have recovered to Grade 1 or baseline

Interrupt bortezomib treatment at the onset of any Grade 3 hematologic or nonhematological toxicities, excluding neuropathy [see Table 5, Warnings and Precautions (5)]. For dose aedjustments, see Table 4 below.

Table 4: Dose Modifications on Days 4, 8, and 11 During Cycles of Combination Bortezomib, Rituximab, Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin and Prednisone Therapy
ToxicityDose Modification or Delay
Hematological Toxicity
Grade 3 or higher neutropenia, or a platelet count not at or above 25 × 109/LWithhold bortezomib therapy for up to 2 weeks until the patient has an ANC at or above 0.75 × 109/L and a platelet count at or above 25 × 109/L.
  1. If, after bortezomib has been withheld, the toxicity does not resolve, discontinue bortezomib.
  2. If toxicity resolves such that the patient has an ANC at or above 0.75 × 109/L and a platelet count at or above 25 × 109/L, bortezomib dose should be reduced by 1 dose level (from 1.3 mg/m2 to 1 mg/m2, or from 1 mg/m2 to 0.7 mg/m2).
Grade 3 or higher nonhematological toxicitiesWithhold bortezomib therapy until symptoms of the toxicity have resolved to Grade 2 or better. Then, bortezomib may be reinitiated with one dose level reduction (from 1.3 mg/m2 to 1 mg/m2, or from 1 mg/m2 to 0.7 mg/m2).
For bortezomib-related neuropathic pain and/or peripheral neuropathy, hold or modify bortezomib as outlined in Table 5.

For information concerning rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin and prednisone, see manufacturer's prescribing information.

2.6 Dosage and Dose Modifications for Relapsed Multiple Myeloma and Relapsed Mantle Cell Lymphoma

Bortezomib for injection (1.3 mg/m2/dose) is administered twice weekly for two weeks (Days 1, 4, 8, and 11) followed by a ten day rest period (Days 12 to 21). For extended therapy of more than eight cycles, bortezomib for injection may be administered on the standard schedule or, for relapsed multiple myeloma, on a maintenance schedule of once weekly for four weeks (Days 1, 8, 15, and 22) followed by a 13 day rest period (Days 23 to 35) [see Clinical Studies (14)]. At least 72 hours should elapse between consecutive doses of bortezomib for injection.

Patients with multiple myeloma who have previously responded to treatment with bortezomib for injection (either alone or in combination) and who have relapsed at least six months after their prior bortezomib for injection therapy may be started on bortezomib for injection at the last tolerated dose. Retreated patients are administered bortezomib for injection twice weekly (Days 1, 4, 8, and 11) every three weeks for a maximum of eight cycles. At least 72 hours should elapse between consecutive doses of bortezomib for injection. Bortezomib for injection may be administered either as a single agent or in combination with dexamethasone [see Clinical Studies (14.1)].

Bortezomib for injection therapy should be withheld at the onset of any Grade 3 nonhematological or Grade 4 hematological toxicities excluding neuropathy as discussed below [see Warnings and Precautions (5)]. Once the symptoms of the toxicity have resolved, bortezomib for injection therapy may be reinitiated at a 25% reduced dose (1.3 mg/m2/dose reduced to 1 mg/m2/dose; 1 mg/m2/dose reduced to 0.7 mg/m2/dose).

For dose modifications guidelines for peripheral neuropathy, see section 2.7.

2.7 Dose Modifications for Peripheral Neuropathy

Starting bortezomib for injection subcutaneously may be considered for patients with pre-existing or at high risk of peripheral neuropathy. Patients with pre-existing severe neuropathy should be treated with bortezomib for injection only after careful risk-benefit assessment.

Patients experiencing new or worsening peripheral neuropathy during bortezomib for injection therapy may require a decrease in the dose and/or a less dose-intense schedule.

For dose or schedule modification guidelines for patients who experience bortezomib for injection-related neuropathic pain and/or peripheral neuropathy, see Table 5.

Table 5: Recommended Dose Modification for Bortezomib for Injection related Neuropathic Pain and/or Peripheral Sensory or Motor Neuropathy
Severity of Peripheral Neuropathy Signs and Symptoms*Modification of Dose and Regimen
*
Grading based on NCI Common Terminology Criteria CTCAE v4.0
Instrumental ADL: refers to preparing meals, shopping for groceries or clothes, using telephone, managing money, etc.
Self care ADL: refers to bathing, dressing and undressing, feeding self, using the toilet, taking medications, and not bedridden
Grade 1 (asymptomatic: loss of deep tendon reflexes or paresthesia) without pain or loss of functionNo action
Grade 1 with pain or Grade 2 (moderate symptoms; limiting instrumental Activities of Daily Living (ADL))Reduce bortezomib for injection to 1 mg/m2
Grade 2 with pain or Grade 3 (severe symptoms; limiting self care ADL)Withhold bortezomib for injection therapy until toxicity resolves. When toxicity resolves reinitiate with a reduced dose of bortezomib for injection at 0.7 mg/m2 once per week.
Grade 4 (life-threatening consequences; urgent intervention indicated)Discontinue bortezomib for injection

2.8 Dosage in Patients with Hepatic Impairment

Do not adjust the starting dose for patients with mild hepatic impairment.

Start patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment at a reduced dose of 0.7 mg/m2 per injection during the first cycle, and consider subsequent dose escalation to 1 mg/m2 or further dose reduction to 0.5 mg/m2 based on patient tolerance (see Table 6) [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Table 6: Recommended Starting Dose Modification for Bortezomib for Injection in Patients with Hepatic Impairment
Bilirubin LevelSGOT (AST) LevelsModification of Starting Dose
Abbreviations: SGOT = serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase;
AST = aspartate aminotransferase; ULN = upper limit of the normal range.
MildLess than or equal to 1× ULNMore than ULNNone
More than 1× to 1.5× ULNAnyNone
ModerateMore than 1.5× to 3× ULNAnyReduce bortezomib for injection to 0.7 mg/m2 in the first cycle. Consider dose escalation to 1 mg/m2 or further dose reduction to 0.5 mg/m2 in subsequent cycles based on patient tolerability.
SevereMore than 3× ULNAny

2.9 Administration Precautions

The drug quantity contained in one vial (3.5 mg) may exceed the usual dose required. Caution should be used in calculating the dose to prevent overdose [see Dosage and Administration (2.10)].

When administered subcutaneously, sites for each injection (thigh or abdomen) should be rotated. New injections should be given at least one inch from an old site and never into areas where the site is tender, bruised, erythematous, or indurated.

If local injection site reactions occur following bortezomib for injection administration subcutaneously, a less concentrated bortezomib for injection solution (1 mg/mL instead of 2.5 mg/mL) may be administered subcutaneously [see Dosage and Administration (2.10)]. Alternatively, consider use of the intravenous route of administration [see Dosage and Administration (2.10)].

Bortezomib for injection is a hazardous drug. Follow applicable special handling and disposal procedures.1

2.10 Reconstitution/Preparation for Intravenous and Subcutaneous Administration

Use proper aseptic technique. Reconstitute only with 0.9% sodium chloride. The reconstituted product should be a clear and colorless solution.

Different volumes of 0.9% sodium chloride are used to reconstitute the product for the different routes of administration. The reconstituted concentration of bortezomib for subcutaneous administration (2.5 mg/mL) is greater than the reconstituted concentration of bortezomib for intravenous administration (1 mg/mL). Because each route of administration has a different reconstituted concentration, use caution when calculating the volume to be administered [see Dosage and Administration (2.9)].

For each 3.5 mg single-dose vial of bortezomib, reconstitute with the following volume of 0.9% sodium chloride based on route of administration (Table 7):

Table 7: Reconstitution Volumes and Final Concentration for Intravenous and Subcutaneous Administration
Route of AdministrationBortezomib (mg/vial)Diluent (0.9% Sodium Chloride)Final Bortezomib Concentration
(mg/mL)
Intravenous3.5 mg3.5 mL1 mg/mL
Subcutaneous3.5 mg1.4 mL2.5 mg/mL

Dose must be individualized to prevent overdosage. After determining patient body surface area (BSA) in square meters, use the following equations to calculate the total volume (mL) of reconstituted bortezomib for injection to be administered:

  • Intravenous Administration [1 mg/mL concentration]
bortezomib for injection dose
(mg/m2) × patient BSA (m2)
= Total bortezomib for injection volume (mL) to be administered
1 mg/mL
  • Subcutaneous Administration [2.5 mg/mL concentration]
bortezomib for injection dose
(mg/m2) × patient BSA (m2)
= Total bortezomib for injection volume (mL) to be administered
2.5 mg/mL

Stickers that indicate the route of administration are provided with each bortezomib for injection vial. These stickers should be placed directly on the syringe of bortezomib for injection once bortezomib for injection is prepared to help alert practitioners of the correct route of administration for bortezomib for injection.

Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration whenever solution and container permit. If any discoloration or particulate matter is observed, the reconstituted product should not be used.

Stability

Unopened vials of bortezomib for injection are stable until the date indicated on the package when stored in the original package protected from light.

Bortezomib for injection contains no antimicrobial preservative. Administer reconstituted bortezomib for injection within eight hours of preparation. When reconstituted as directed, bortezomib for injection may be stored at 25ºC (77ºF). The reconstituted material may be stored in the original vial and/or the syringe prior to administration. The product may be stored for up to eight hours in a syringe; however, total storage time for the reconstituted material must not exceed eight hours when exposed to normal indoor lighting.

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Dosage and Administration

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

2.1 Important Dosing Guidelines

Bortezomib for injection is for intravenous or subcutaneous use only. Do not administer bortezomib for injection by any other route.

Because each route of administration has a different reconstituted concentration, use caution when calculating the volume to be administered.

The recommended starting dose of bortezomib for injection is 1.3 mg/m2. Bortezomib for injection is administered intravenously at a concentration of 1 mg/mL, or subcutaneously at a concentration of 2.5 mg/mL [see Dosage and Administration (2.10)].

Bortezomib for injection retreatment may be considered for patients with multiple myeloma who had previously responded to treatment with bortezomib for injection and who have relapsed at least six months after completing prior bortezomib for injection treatment. Treatment may be started at the last tolerated dose [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)].

When administered intravenously, administer bortezomib for injection as a 3 to 5 second bolus intravenous injection.

2.2 Dosage in Previously Untreated Multiple Myeloma

Bortezomib for injection is administered in combination with oral melphalan and oral prednisone for 9, six week treatment cycles as shown in Table 1. In Cycles 1 to 4, bortezomib for injection is administered twice weekly (Days 1, 4, 8, 11, 22, 25, 29 and 32). In Cycles 5 to 9, bortezomib for injection is administered once weekly (Days 1, 8, 22 and 29). At least 72 hours should elapse between consecutive doses of bortezomib for injection.

Table 1: Dosage Regimen for Patients with Previously Untreated Multiple Myeloma
Twice Weekly Bortezomib for Injection (Cycles 1 to 4)
Week123456
Bortezomib for Injection
(1.3 mg/m2)
Day 1----Day 4Day 8Day 11rest periodDay 22Day 25Day 29Day 32rest period
Melphalan (9 mg/m2)
Prednisone (60 mg/m2)
Day 1Day 2Day 3Day 4----rest period--------rest period
Once Weekly Bortezomib for Injection (Cycles 5 to 9 when used in combination with Melphalan and Prednisone)
Week123456
Bortezomib for Injection
(1.3 mg/m2)
Day 1----Day 8rest periodDay 22Day 29rest period
Melphalan (9 mg/m2)
Prednisone (60 mg/m2)
Day 1Day 2Day 3Day 4----rest period--------rest period

2.3 Dose Modification Guidelines for Bortezomib for Injection When Given in Combination with Melphalan and Prednisone

Prior to initiating any cycle of therapy with bortezomib for injection in combination with melphalan and prednisone:

  • Platelet count should be at least 70 × 109/L and the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) should be at least 1 × 109/L
  • Nonhematological toxicities should have resolved to Grade 1 or baseline
Table 2: Dose Modifications During Cycles of Combination Bortezomib for Injection, Melphalan and Prednisone Therapy
ToxicityDose Modification or Delay
Hematological toxicity during a cycle:
If prolonged Grade 4 neutropenia or thrombocytopenia, or thrombocytopenia with bleeding is observed in the previous cycle
Consider reduction of the melphalan dose by 25% in the next cycle
If platelet count is not above 30 × 109/L or ANC is not above 0.75 × 109/L on a bortezomib for injection dosing day (other than Day 1)Withhold bortezomib for injection dose
If several bortezomib for injection doses in consecutive cycles are withheld due to toxicityReduce bortezomib for injection dose by one dose level (from 1.3 mg/m2 to 1 mg/m2, or from 1 mg/m2 to 0.7 mg/m2)
Grade 3 or higher nonhematological toxicitiesWithhold bortezomib for injection therapy until symptoms of toxicity have resolved to Grade 1 or baseline. Then, bortezomib for injection may be reinitiated with one dose level reduction (from 1.3 mg/m2 to 1 mg/m2, or from 1 mg/m2 to 0.7 mg/m2). For bortezomib for injection-related neuropathic pain and/or peripheral neuropathy, hold or modify bortezomib for injection as outlined in Table 5.

For information concerning melphalan and prednisone, see manufacturer's prescribing information.

Dose modifications guidelines for peripheral neuropathy are provided [see Dosage and Administration (2.7)].

2.4 Dosage in Previously Untreated Mantle Cell Lymphoma

Bortezomib (1.3 mg/m2) is administered intravenously in combination with intravenous rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin and oral prednisone (VcR-CAP) for 6, three week treatment cycles as shown in Table 3. Bortezomib is administered first followed by rituximab. Bortezomib is administered twice weekly for two weeks (Days 1, 4, 8, and 11) followed by a ten day rest period on Days 12 to 21. For patients with a response first documented at Cycle 6, two additional VcR-CAP cycles are recommended. At least 72 hours should elapse between consecutive doses of bortezomib.

Table 3: Dosage Regimen for Patients with Previously Untreated Mantle Cell Lymphoma Twice Weekly Bortezomib (6, Three Week Cycles)*
Week123
*
Dosing may continue for two more cycles (for a total of eight cycles) if response is first seen at Cycle 6.
Bortezomib (1.3 mg/m2) Day 1----Day 4--Day 8Day 11rest period
Rituximab (375 mg/m2)
Cyclophosphamide (750 mg/m2)
Doxorubicin (50 mg/m2)
Day 1--------rest period
Prednisone (100 mg/m2) Day 1Day 2Day 3Day 4Day 5----rest period

2.5 Dose Modification Guidelines for Bortezomib When Given in Combination with Rituximab, Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin and Prednisone

Prior to the first day of each cycle (other than Cycle 1):

  • Platelet count should be at least 100 × 109/L and absolute neutrophil count (ANC) should be at least 1.5 × 109/L
  • Hemoglobin should be at least 8 g/dL (at least 4.96 mmol/L)
  • Nonhematologic toxicity should have recovered to Grade 1 or baseline

Interrupt bortezomib treatment at the onset of any Grade 3 hematologic or nonhematological toxicities, excluding neuropathy [see Table 5, Warnings and Precautions (5)]. For dose aedjustments, see Table 4 below.

Table 4: Dose Modifications on Days 4, 8, and 11 During Cycles of Combination Bortezomib, Rituximab, Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin and Prednisone Therapy
ToxicityDose Modification or Delay
Hematological Toxicity
Grade 3 or higher neutropenia, or a platelet count not at or above 25 × 109/LWithhold bortezomib therapy for up to 2 weeks until the patient has an ANC at or above 0.75 × 109/L and a platelet count at or above 25 × 109/L.
  1. If, after bortezomib has been withheld, the toxicity does not resolve, discontinue bortezomib.
  2. If toxicity resolves such that the patient has an ANC at or above 0.75 × 109/L and a platelet count at or above 25 × 109/L, bortezomib dose should be reduced by 1 dose level (from 1.3 mg/m2 to 1 mg/m2, or from 1 mg/m2 to 0.7 mg/m2).
Grade 3 or higher nonhematological toxicitiesWithhold bortezomib therapy until symptoms of the toxicity have resolved to Grade 2 or better. Then, bortezomib may be reinitiated with one dose level reduction (from 1.3 mg/m2 to 1 mg/m2, or from 1 mg/m2 to 0.7 mg/m2).
For bortezomib-related neuropathic pain and/or peripheral neuropathy, hold or modify bortezomib as outlined in Table 5.

For information concerning rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin and prednisone, see manufacturer's prescribing information.

2.6 Dosage and Dose Modifications for Relapsed Multiple Myeloma and Relapsed Mantle Cell Lymphoma

Bortezomib for injection (1.3 mg/m2/dose) is administered twice weekly for two weeks (Days 1, 4, 8, and 11) followed by a ten day rest period (Days 12 to 21). For extended therapy of more than eight cycles, bortezomib for injection may be administered on the standard schedule or, for relapsed multiple myeloma, on a maintenance schedule of once weekly for four weeks (Days 1, 8, 15, and 22) followed by a 13 day rest period (Days 23 to 35) [see Clinical Studies (14)]. At least 72 hours should elapse between consecutive doses of bortezomib for injection.

Patients with multiple myeloma who have previously responded to treatment with bortezomib for injection (either alone or in combination) and who have relapsed at least six months after their prior bortezomib for injection therapy may be started on bortezomib for injection at the last tolerated dose. Retreated patients are administered bortezomib for injection twice weekly (Days 1, 4, 8, and 11) every three weeks for a maximum of eight cycles. At least 72 hours should elapse between consecutive doses of bortezomib for injection. Bortezomib for injection may be administered either as a single agent or in combination with dexamethasone [see Clinical Studies (14.1)].

Bortezomib for injection therapy should be withheld at the onset of any Grade 3 nonhematological or Grade 4 hematological toxicities excluding neuropathy as discussed below [see Warnings and Precautions (5)]. Once the symptoms of the toxicity have resolved, bortezomib for injection therapy may be reinitiated at a 25% reduced dose (1.3 mg/m2/dose reduced to 1 mg/m2/dose; 1 mg/m2/dose reduced to 0.7 mg/m2/dose).

For dose modifications guidelines for peripheral neuropathy, see section 2.7.

2.7 Dose Modifications for Peripheral Neuropathy

Starting bortezomib for injection subcutaneously may be considered for patients with pre-existing or at high risk of peripheral neuropathy. Patients with pre-existing severe neuropathy should be treated with bortezomib for injection only after careful risk-benefit assessment.

Patients experiencing new or worsening peripheral neuropathy during bortezomib for injection therapy may require a decrease in the dose and/or a less dose-intense schedule.

For dose or schedule modification guidelines for patients who experience bortezomib for injection-related neuropathic pain and/or peripheral neuropathy, see Table 5.

Table 5: Recommended Dose Modification for Bortezomib for Injection related Neuropathic Pain and/or Peripheral Sensory or Motor Neuropathy
Severity of Peripheral Neuropathy Signs and Symptoms*Modification of Dose and Regimen
*
Grading based on NCI Common Terminology Criteria CTCAE v4.0
Instrumental ADL: refers to preparing meals, shopping for groceries or clothes, using telephone, managing money, etc.
Self care ADL: refers to bathing, dressing and undressing, feeding self, using the toilet, taking medications, and not bedridden
Grade 1 (asymptomatic: loss of deep tendon reflexes or paresthesia) without pain or loss of functionNo action
Grade 1 with pain or Grade 2 (moderate symptoms; limiting instrumental Activities of Daily Living (ADL))Reduce bortezomib for injection to 1 mg/m2
Grade 2 with pain or Grade 3 (severe symptoms; limiting self care ADL)Withhold bortezomib for injection therapy until toxicity resolves. When toxicity resolves reinitiate with a reduced dose of bortezomib for injection at 0.7 mg/m2 once per week.
Grade 4 (life-threatening consequences; urgent intervention indicated)Discontinue bortezomib for injection

2.8 Dosage in Patients with Hepatic Impairment

Do not adjust the starting dose for patients with mild hepatic impairment.

Start patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment at a reduced dose of 0.7 mg/m2 per injection during the first cycle, and consider subsequent dose escalation to 1 mg/m2 or further dose reduction to 0.5 mg/m2 based on patient tolerance (see Table 6) [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Table 6: Recommended Starting Dose Modification for Bortezomib for Injection in Patients with Hepatic Impairment
Bilirubin LevelSGOT (AST) LevelsModification of Starting Dose
Abbreviations: SGOT = serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase;
AST = aspartate aminotransferase; ULN = upper limit of the normal range.
MildLess than or equal to 1× ULNMore than ULNNone
More than 1× to 1.5× ULNAnyNone
ModerateMore than 1.5× to 3× ULNAnyReduce bortezomib for injection to 0.7 mg/m2 in the first cycle. Consider dose escalation to 1 mg/m2 or further dose reduction to 0.5 mg/m2 in subsequent cycles based on patient tolerability.
SevereMore than 3× ULNAny

2.9 Administration Precautions

The drug quantity contained in one vial (3.5 mg) may exceed the usual dose required. Caution should be used in calculating the dose to prevent overdose [see Dosage and Administration (2.10)].

When administered subcutaneously, sites for each injection (thigh or abdomen) should be rotated. New injections should be given at least one inch from an old site and never into areas where the site is tender, bruised, erythematous, or indurated.

If local injection site reactions occur following bortezomib for injection administration subcutaneously, a less concentrated bortezomib for injection solution (1 mg/mL instead of 2.5 mg/mL) may be administered subcutaneously [see Dosage and Administration (2.10)]. Alternatively, consider use of the intravenous route of administration [see Dosage and Administration (2.10)].

Bortezomib for injection is a hazardous drug. Follow applicable special handling and disposal procedures.1

2.10 Reconstitution/Preparation for Intravenous and Subcutaneous Administration

Use proper aseptic technique. Reconstitute only with 0.9% sodium chloride. The reconstituted product should be a clear and colorless solution.

Different volumes of 0.9% sodium chloride are used to reconstitute the product for the different routes of administration. The reconstituted concentration of bortezomib for subcutaneous administration (2.5 mg/mL) is greater than the reconstituted concentration of bortezomib for intravenous administration (1 mg/mL). Because each route of administration has a different reconstituted concentration, use caution when calculating the volume to be administered [see Dosage and Administration (2.9)].

For each 3.5 mg single-dose vial of bortezomib, reconstitute with the following volume of 0.9% sodium chloride based on route of administration (Table 7):

Table 7: Reconstitution Volumes and Final Concentration for Intravenous and Subcutaneous Administration
Route of AdministrationBortezomib (mg/vial)Diluent (0.9% Sodium Chloride)Final Bortezomib Concentration
(mg/mL)
Intravenous3.5 mg3.5 mL1 mg/mL
Subcutaneous3.5 mg1.4 mL2.5 mg/mL

Dose must be individualized to prevent overdosage. After determining patient body surface area (BSA) in square meters, use the following equations to calculate the total volume (mL) of reconstituted bortezomib for injection to be administered:

  • Intravenous Administration [1 mg/mL concentration]
bortezomib for injection dose
(mg/m2) × patient BSA (m2)
= Total bortezomib for injection volume (mL) to be administered
1 mg/mL
  • Subcutaneous Administration [2.5 mg/mL concentration]
bortezomib for injection dose
(mg/m2) × patient BSA (m2)
= Total bortezomib for injection volume (mL) to be administered
2.5 mg/mL

Stickers that indicate the route of administration are provided with each bortezomib for injection vial. These stickers should be placed directly on the syringe of bortezomib for injection once bortezomib for injection is prepared to help alert practitioners of the correct route of administration for bortezomib for injection.

Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration whenever solution and container permit. If any discoloration or particulate matter is observed, the reconstituted product should not be used.

Stability

Unopened vials of bortezomib for injection are stable until the date indicated on the package when stored in the original package protected from light.

Bortezomib for injection contains no antimicrobial preservative. Administer reconstituted bortezomib for injection within eight hours of preparation. When reconstituted as directed, bortezomib for injection may be stored at 25ºC (77ºF). The reconstituted material may be stored in the original vial and/or the syringe prior to administration. The product may be stored for up to eight hours in a syringe; however, total storage time for the reconstituted material must not exceed eight hours when exposed to normal indoor lighting.

Medication Guide

Health Professional Information

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