Thalidomide
- What is it for
Thalidomide is a medication that can be used in the treatment of certain cancers, immune-related conditions and some skin conditions.
Thalidomide
- Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications
What side effects can
Thalidomide
cause?
- Drowsiness or lack of energy
Be careful when performing tasks that require alertness. Avoid alcohol. - Headache
- Tingling or numbness of the hands and feet
- Constipation
- Swelling of hands or feet due to fluid retention
- Dizziness when changing position
Rise slowly from a seated or lying position. - Decreased white blood cell count
Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:
- Severe skin rash or itch
- Fever of 38°C or higher, sore throat
- Unusual bleeding, bruising or black sticky stools
- Slow or irregular heartbeat
- Sudden onset of cough, shortness of breath or chest pain
- Severe or unusual swelling of hands or feet
- Side effects that are severe
Before taking
Thalidomide
, what precautions must I follow?
- Do not donate blood during treatment and for at least 1 month after stopping Thalidomide.
- Effective birth control measures should be taken by both men and women as Thalidomide can cause severe birth defects.
- For men: Do not donate sperm during and for 1 month after stopping treatment.
Thalidomide
- Dosage and How to Use
How should
Thalidomide
be used?
It is a capsule taken by mouth and swallowed whole with water. Take it once daily, at least one hour after a meal and preferably at bedtime.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can if it is within 12 hours of your missed dose. However if more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double dose.
What should I do if I overdose?
If you overdose on this medication, inform your doctor immediately.
Thalidomide
- Handling
How should I handle
Thalidomide
safely?
Do not open, chew or crush the capsules.
Thalidomide
- Storage
How should I store
Thalidomide
?
- Keep away from children
- Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight
- Store at room temperature