Bortezomib treatment for multiple myeloma

OBJECTIVE: To review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and place of bortezomib in the therapy of multiple myeloma (MM).DATA SOURCES: 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.STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION: 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.DATA SYNTHESIS: 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.