Thalidomide

Details of the Drug

Generic Name:: Thalidomide
Pronunciation:: tha-LID-oh-mide
Drug Type:: Immunomodulator
How the Drug is Given:: By mouth
Names:: Thalomid®; Thalidomide

Indications and Usage

Thalidomide is FDA approved in combination with dexamethasone to treat patients with newly diagnosed myeloma. It is being studied to treat patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS).

Side effects needing medical attention

Patients noticing peripheral neuropathy (tingling, burning, numbness or pain in the hands or feet) must stop taking the medication and call their doctor immediately. Also needing medical attention are muscle weakness; blood in urine; decreased urination; fever, alone or with chills and sore throat; irregular heartbeat; low blood pressure; rash; constipation; diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; nausea; stomach pain; dryness of mouth; dry skin; headache; increased appetite; mood changes; swelling in the legs.

For information on how to manage the costs of drug therapy, please see Financial Support, or to speak with an Information Specialist, call (800) 955-4572.