Thalidomide
Thalidomide is a specialist immunomodulatory medicine used in selected treatment regimens, including some for multiple myeloma. It can cause severe fetal harm and requires strict controls.
Key points
- Exposure during pregnancy can cause severe birth defects or fetal death; pregnancy-prevention requirements apply to patients who can become pregnant and to partners who may be exposed through semen.
- Peripheral neuropathy can become irreversible, so new numbness, tingling, burning pain or weakness needs prompt review.
- Thalidomide can increase blood-clot risk, particularly within some cancer regimens, and requires specialist monitoring.
Listings are for comparison only; thalidomide suitability and supply depend on specialist prescribing, controlled pharmacy processes and required pregnancy-prevention checks.
What thalidomide is used for
Thalidomide may be used as part of a specialist regimen for multiple myeloma and selected other conditions. It is not a general anti-inflammatory medicine and should not be substituted within an oncology regimen.
How it works
Thalidomide changes immune signalling and affects processes involved in abnormal cell growth. Its treatment effect and toxicities depend on the condition, combination regimen and patient factors.
Important safety checks
Pregnancy testing and effective contraception may be required before, during and after treatment according to the treatment programme. Blood counts, nerve symptoms, clot risk, sedation and other medicines need review. Do not donate blood or share this medicine.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent help for chest pain, sudden breathlessness, coughing blood, one-sided leg swelling, signs of stroke, severe skin blistering, facial swelling or breathing difficulty. Contact the specialist team promptly for new nerve symptoms or any possible pregnancy exposure.