Subcutaneous bortezomib for multiple myeloma treatment: patients’ benefits

Maria Teresa Petrucci, Paola Finsinger, Marta Chisini, Fabiana GentiliniDepartment of Cellular Biotechnology and Hematology, Sapienza University of Rome, ItalyAbstract: The use of novel agents such as thalidomide, lenalidomide, and bortezomib has considerably improved the outcome of multiple myeloma patients. Besides greater biological activity, these drugs unfortunately have also been associated with greater toxicity. To evaluate the positive effect on the quality of life of patients, driven by both the tolerability and antimyeloma activity of bortezomib, we analyzed data that have been published concerning different strategies used to improve its tolerability as once weekly and/or subcutaneous administration.Keywords: intravenous bortezomib, quality of life, patient preferenc