Proteasome Inhibitors

Proteasome inhibitors are a type of medicine used to treat multiple myeloma. These drugs work by blocking a natural process inside your cells, much like a recycling system, called a proteasome, which normally breaks down and recycles old or unwanted proteins. Myeloma cells produce many abnormal proteins and rely heavily on this system to survive, more so than healthy cells. When the proteasome is blocked, these proteins build up inside the myeloma cells, causing stress and eventually leading to their death. This topic will help you understand how these medicines work, what to expect during treatment, and how to manage possible side effects, so you can feel more informed about your care.