Thalidomide

'This agent was introduced in Europe in 1957 and 1958 and, based on animal tests then commonly used, was promoted as a ''nontoxic'' hypnotic. In 1961, the first reports were published suggesting that thalidomide was responsible for a dramatic increase in the incidence of a rare birth defect called phocomelia, a condition involving shortening or complete absence of limbs. Because of this association the drug was withdrawn from sale worldwide. Thalidomide is now a well-established agent for treating refractory or relapsed multiple myeloma. Recently it has been used in combination with dexamethasone, and proved effective in palliating symptoms.'

Brands

THALIDO THALIDO

Adult Dose

Dose: 200 mg
Single Dose: 200 (200)
Frequency: 24 hourly
Route: PO
Instructions: Multiple Myeloma: Should be taken with water, preferably at bedtime and at least 1-hour after the evening meal.

Neonatal

Paedriatic

Characteristics

. It is of Synthetic origin. . The Molecular Weight of Thalidomide is 258.20.

Contraindications

Thalidomide is contraindicated in conditions like Pregnancy.

Effects

Thalidomide produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Phocomelia, Neurological disturbances. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Thalidomide therapy.The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Thalidomide are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Nausea, Constipation, Rashes, Increased plasma triglycerides, Menstrual irregularity, Xerostomia, Myxedema.

Indications

Thalidomide is primarily indicated in conditions like Graft versus host disease, Hypnotic, Insomnia, Leprosum, Lupus erythematosus, Orogenital ulceration, Sedative.

Interactions

Thalidomide is known to interact with other drugs, the details of drug interactions is as follows:DrugDetailsSeverityOnsetManagementChlorpromazine (HCl)ReserpineZoledronic Acid These interactions are sometimes beneficial and sometimes may pose threats to life. Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.

Interfrence

Liver Function Test (LFT) Increased Alkaline Phosphatase LevelsIncreased in serum creatinin

Risks

Drug should not be given to Pregnant Mothers.If prescribing authority justifies the benefits of the drug against the possible damages he/she should reevaluate them and consult the reference material and previous studies.

Storage

Caps Store at room temperature.

Warnings

Thalidomide can cause severe birth defects in humans. Patients should be instructed to take thalidomide only as prescribed and not to share their thalidomide with anyone else. Thalidomide frequently causes drowsiness and somnolence. Patients should be instructed to avoid situations where drowsiness may be a problem and not to take other medications that may cause drowsiness without adequate medical advice. Thalidomide has been shown to be present in the serum and semen of patients receiving thalidomide. If healthcare providers or other care givers are exposed to body fluids from patients receiving thalidomide, appropriate precautions should be utilized, such as wearing gloves to prevent the potential cutaneous exposure to thalidomide or the exposed area should be washed with soap and water.

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