Kyprolis (carfilzomib) – A Powerful Drug for Multiple Myeloma Kyprolis, also known by its generic name carfilzomib, is a medication used to treat multiple myeloma, a type of cancer that targets the plasma cells found in the bone marrow. It is classified as a proteasome inhibitor and is given intravenously, which means it is administered through a vein. This article provides a detailed overview of Kyprolis, including its uses, dosage, demographic, side effects, interactions, and generic options. Uses Kyprolis is used to treat patients with multiple myeloma (MM), a cancer of the plasma cells that affects over 32,000 people in the United States each year. It is typically prescribed to patients who have already received one or more therapeutic regimens that did not work or stopped working. Kyprolis works by blocking the actions of proteasomes, structures that break down proteins in cells. By preventing proteasomes from breaking down certain proteins, Kyprolis can help to slow or stop the progression of multiple myeloma. Dosage Kyprolis is administered intravenously through a vein. The dose and frequency of Kyprolis given to a patient depends on several factors, including the patient's overall health, age, weight, and previous treatments. Typically, Kyprolis is given in cycles of four weeks, as follows: • On days one, two, eight, nine, 15, and 16, Kyprolis is given as an intravenous infusion over a period of two to 10 minutes. The initial dose is typically 20mg/m², which can be increased up to 56mg/m² if the patient tolerates the drug well. • On days one, two, 15, and 16, dexamethasone is given orally or intravenously to patients who need it. Treatment may continue for several cycles, depending on the patient's response to the drug. Demographic Kyprolis is approved for use in adults with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have received one to three previous treatment regimens. There is currently no data available on the safety and effectiveness of Kyprolis in pediatric patients. Side Effects Kyprolis can cause several side effects, including: • fatigue • nausea • diarrhea • shortness of breath • fever • headache • back pain • decreased appetite • low blood cell counts (anemia, thrombocytopenia, and neutropenia) • peripheral neuropathy (numbness or tingling in the hands and feet) • cardiac and lung toxicity Kyprolis can also cause infusion reactions, which are allergic reactions that occur during or soon after infusion. Signs of an infusion reaction can include fever, chills, rash, itching, shortness of breath, and low blood pressure. Patients should report any signs of an infusion reaction to their healthcare provider immediately. Interactions Kyprolis can interact with other medications, including: • other chemotherapy drugs • nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) • warfarin • oral contraceptives Patients should tell their healthcare provider about all medications, vitamins, and supplements they are taking before starting Kyprolis. Generic Options Kyprolis is a brand-name medication that is not currently available as a generic. However, there are other proteasome inhibitors available that can be used to treat multiple myeloma, including Velcade (bortezomib) and Ninlaro (ixazomib). Patients should talk to their healthcare provider about which medication is right for them. Conclusion Kyprolis is a powerful medication that can be used to treat patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have received one to three previous treatment regimens. It is given intravenously over a period of four weeks and can cause several side effects, including fatigue, nausea, and peripheral neuropathy. While there are currently no generic versions of Kyprolis available, other proteasome inhibitors are available, and patients should talk to their healthcare provider about which medication is right for them.