Thalidomide - Drug Information

Generic Name : Thalidomide
Pronunciation : tha LID o mide

ICD Code : Y41.1 | Therapeutic Classification : Antileprotics

Trade Name(s) :

India - Thalon, Thaloda, Thycad, Thalix (50 mg), Tolimid, Thaloda (100mg), Oncothal, Tolimid (100 mg), Thalix (100 mg), Thaangio, Talimyde, Thalimax 500 mg, Thalimax 100 mg, Oncothal, Thalide, Thalide, Thalide, Thaloda, Thaloda, Thycad, Thycad, Lenid, Lenid


International - Thalomid.

Why is Thalidomide Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an immunomodulatory agent, prescribed for multiple myeloma, and erythema nodosum leprosum (ENL). It works on the immune system to decrease certain substances that cause skin inflammation

When should Thalidomide not to be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in pregnant and breastfeeding women, and known hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Thalidomide?

The recommended dose is 200mg administered orally once daily with water, preferably at bedtime and at least 1-hour after the evening meal.

How should Thalidomide be taken?

It comes as a capsule to take by mouth, with food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Thalidomide?

* Caution should be exercised in patients with history of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), decrease in white blood cells, seizures, and in children.
* It may cause dizziness or drowsiness, do not drive a car or operate machinery and get up slowly from bed while taking this medication.
* Avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication.

What are the side effects of Thalidomide?

Most Common - Drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, confusion, difficulty in breathing and rash.
Body as a Whole - Abdominal pain, accidental injury, weakness, back pain, chills, swelling in the face, fever, headache, uneasiness and infection.
Gastrointestinal - Loss of appetite, constipation, diarrhea, dry mouth, flatulence, liver function abnormalities, nausea and tooth pain.
Blood - Anemia and decrease in white blood cells.
Metabolic - Swelling in the extremities, increased cholesterol and elevated liver enzyme.
Central Nervous System - Agitation, dizziness, sleeplessness, nervousness, nerve disease, tingling, drowsiness, tremor and unsteadiness.
Respiratory - Inflammation of pharynx/sinus and runny nose.
Skin - Pimples, skin inflammation, nail disorder, itching and increased sweating.
Genitourinary - Blood in urine and impotence.

What are the other precautions for Thalidomide?

* Avoid excess dosage.

What are the storage conditions for Thalidomide?

Store the medication at 25�C.