Generic Name: thalidomide
Other Market Name: Synovir
Drug Class: Immunotherapy Medications
Company: Celgene
Approval Status: Approved
Generic Version Available: Yes
Drug Indication
Thalomid is an immunomodulator approved for multiple myeloma, in combination with dexamethasone.
General Info
Thalomid is an immunomodulatory that boosts immune function by stimulating T-cell and natural killer cell activity. In addition, it inhibits the growth of cancer cells and blocks development of blood vessels that feed tumors.
Clinical trials showed that Thalomid plus dexamethasone slows disease progression in people with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma.
Dosage
Dosing Info:
Thalomid is taken as is a once-daily pill. It should be used in combination with dexamethasone.
Side Effects
Common side effects include fatigue, swelling, constipation, muscle weakness, fever, skin rash, mental confusion, anxiety, drowsiness, dizziness and neuropathy (nerve damage). It can cause depletion of red blood cells (anemia), white blood cells (neutropenia) and platelets (thrombocytopenia), which can lead to infections and easy bleeding. Potential serious side effects include heart problems, deep vein thrombosis (blood clots), seizures, severe skin reactions and tumor lysis syndrome (metabolic abnormalities that can occur when many cancer cells are killed at once). Thalidomide can cause severe birth defects and should not be used by pregnant women or those who could become pregnant.
For More Info: https://www.thalomid.com/
Patient Assistance Program Info: https://www.celgenepatientsupport.com/
Last Reviewed: January 11, 2019
