৳ 30/unit
Pack: ৳ 30
৳ 30/unit
Pack: ৳ 30
At a glance
Thalidomide is an immunomodulatory drug used for multiple myeloma and erythema nodosum leprosum (type 2 lepra reaction). It modulates the immune system and exhibits antiangiogenic activity.
Indications
- Multiple myeloma
- Erythema nodosum leprosum (type 2 lepra reaction)
Pharmacology
Thalidomide reduces TNF-α production, modulates immune cell activity, inhibits angiogenesis, and slows tumor growth. It alters cytokine secretion and reduces VEGF, impairing tumor blood supply.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Multiple myeloma: Start 200 mg/day; increase by 100 mg weekly (based on tolerability); max 800 mg/day
- ENL (type 2 lepra reaction): 100-300 mg/day at bedtime; reduce by 50 mg every 2-4 weeks after satisfactory response; <50 kg: start 100 mg/day; max 400 mg/day
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Headache, sleepiness
- Nausea, rash
- Weakness, dizziness
- Edema, loss of appetite
- Decreased white blood cells, decreased calcium
- Weight gain, fatigue, muscle weakness
- Neuropathy, constipation, tremor
Serious:
- Venous thromboembolism (blood clots)
- Neutropenia, thrombocytopenia
- Tumor lysis syndrome
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Highly unsafe (Category X); significant fetal harm; do not use; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: X — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Precautions & warnings
- Highly unsafe in pregnancy (causes severe fetal malformations)
- Use effective contraception (4 weeks before, during, and 4 weeks after treatment)
- Do not donate blood (during treatment and 1 week after stopping)
- May affect driving ability (somnolence, dizziness)
- Monitor for signs of blood clots
Overdose effects
Overdose may cause excessive sedation, somnolence; provide symptomatic treatment.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light; keep out of reach of children.