Thalidomide

Drug Class:	Commonly Known As:	Category:
		Adult, Cancer-related

Thalidomide - What is it for

Thalidomide is a medicine that is used to treat or prevent certain skin conditions. It may also be used for certain conditions in cancer and other diseases.

Thalidomide - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Thalidomide cause?

Drowsiness
Dizziness
Headache
Dry mouth
Constipation
Loss of appetite
Fatigue
Tingling or numbness of the hands and feet

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

Rash or itch
Difficulty in breathing
Persistent sore throat
Fever of 38°C or higher
Slow or fast heartbeat
Severe swelling of the hands or feet
Unusual bruising
Mental or mood changes
Side effects become severe and persist

Before taking Thalidomide, what precautions must I follow?

Women of childbearing potential should have a pregnancy test done within 24 hours before starting thalidomide treatment.
Men using thalidomide should not donate their sperms during and for 1 month after stopping treatment.
Effective birth control measures should be used by both men and women as thalidomide can cause severe birth defects.

For men, this should be practiced during and for up to 4 weeks after stopping treatment
For women, this should be practiced 4 weeks before, during and for at least 4 weeks after stopping treatment.

Blood donations should not be done during and for 1 month after stopping treatment.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Thalidomide?

Thalidomide - Dosage and How to Use

How should Thalidomide be used?

It is a capsule taken by mouth. It should be swallowed whole with water, at least one hour after a meal, preferably at bedtime.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of Thalidomide, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double dose.