Thalomid is called Thalidomide in Europe.
Information about Thalomid (Thalidomide)
Thalomid is the brand name for thalidomide, a drug initially developed in the 1950s as a sedative and treatment for nausea. However, it was withdrawn from the market due to severe birth defects associated with its use during pregnancy. Despite its early history, thalidomide was later found to have significant efficacy in treating certain conditions, particularly in oncology and immunology. It is now used to treat various diseases, including multiple myeloma and leprosy-related conditions. Thalomid works by modulating the immune system and has anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, and anti-tumor effects.
Product Highlights
- Thalomid is used as part of a treatment regimen for multiple myeloma, a type of cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow.
- Thalomid is used to treat the inflammatory complication of leprosy known as erythema nodosum leprosum, which causes painful skin lesions and can lead to nerve damage.
- In certain cases, thalidomide may be prescribed off-label to treat conditions like graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and HIV-related conditions such as wasting syndrome.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Thalomid has shown efficacy in treating multiple myeloma by reducing the growth of cancerous plasma cells and inhibiting angiogenesis (growth of blood vessels that supply the tumor).
- Thalomid helps reduce inflammation and control the painful skin lesions associated with erythema nodosum leprosum in leprosy patients.
- Thalomid also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in managing certain autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.
- It can help improve the quality of life for patients suffering from ENL or multiple myeloma by reducing symptoms like pain and inflammation.
Direction of Use
- The dosage of Thalomid varies depending on the condition being treated. For multiple myeloma, the typical dose is 50 to 200 mg per day. For erythema nodosum leprosum, the dose usually starts around 100 mg per day and can be adjusted based on response.
- Thalomid is taken orally, usually once a day, with or without food. It is essential to take it exactly as directed.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses to compensate for a missed dose.
Safety Concerns
- Thalidomide is highly teratogenic and can lead to serious birth defects. Women of childbearing potential must undergo pregnancy testing and use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 4 weeks after discontinuing the drug.
- Thalomid can cause peripheral neuropathy, leading to symptoms like numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hands and feet.
- Thalomid increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism, particularly when used in combination with other drugs like dexamethasone. Blood thinners may be prescribed to reduce this risk.
- Thalidomide can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or confusion. Patients should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until they know how the drug affects them.
- Thalomid can cause rashes and other skin reactions, including serious ones, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
Avoid Thalomid (Thalidomide) If
- You are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as thalidomide can cause severe birth defects.
- You are breastfeeding, as thalidomide can pass into breast milk and harm the infant.
- You have a history of peripheral neuropathy, as thalidomide may worsen nerve damage.
- You are allergic to thalidomide or any of the ingredients in the formulation.
- You have a history of blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism, as thalidomide increases the risk of clotting.
- You have severe liver or kidney problems, as Thalomid should be used with caution in individuals with impaired organ function.
