Lenalidomide

July 05, 2019

Medicine

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General Information

Lenalidomide is used to treat certain cancers such as:

• Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL)
• Multiple myelomas

This medication helps slow or stop the growth of cancer cells. Lenalidomide is also used to treat anemia in patients with certain blood/bone marrow disorders. This type of condition is called myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS).

How does Lenalidomide work?

Lenalidomide stops the cancerous plasma cells from multiplying. It also enhances the action of cells in the immune system called natural killer cells. These naturally attack abnormal cells including cancerous cells. In order to grow, cancerous cells need a blood supply that provides them with nutrients and oxygen. They also need this blood supply to spread. Cancerous cells stimulate blood vessels to grow into the tumor. Another action of Lenalidomide is to stop the development of new blood vessels.

Why use Lenalidomide?

Lenalidomide is a type of medicine called an immunomodulating agent. This affects the way the immune system works. This has anti-angiogenic and anti-neoplastic properties. Lenalidomide is a prescription approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This is available in the strengths of 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, and 25 mg for oral use.

How to use Lenalidomide?

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to the treatment. It is very important that you take each dose exactly as it is prescribed. Do not take more than or more often than directed by your doctor.

Lenalidomide is to be taken by mouth. Swallow the medicine as a whole with a full glass of water. You may take it with or without a meal. Usually, this medicine is taken once a day. To get the most benefit from it, use this medication regularly. Remember to take each dose at the same time every day.

What are the side effects of Lenalidomide?

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Dry or itchy skin
• Constipation
• Headache
• Muscle or joint pain
• Tiredness
• Bone pain
• Back pain
• Feeling tired or weak
• Sweating a lot
• Trouble sleeping
• Change in taste
• Weight loss

Warnings and Precautions

• While taking this medication, you may bleed more easily. Be careful and avoid injury.
• Do not double the prescribed dosage to avoid some other complications.
• Tell your doctor if you are allergic to this drug. Stop taking it if there are any signs of an allergic reaction.
• Let your doctor know if you have a medical history of liver or kidney disease.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding women, consult your doctor first.
• Keep this at room temperature far from heat and moisture.