đź’Š DESCRIPTION
Thalidomide 100 mg Capsule is an oral immunomodulatory drug (IMiD) with anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic properties. It is used primarily in multiple myeloma treatment and for erythema nodosum leprosum (ENL). Thalidomide is also known for its teratogenicity, requiring strict precautions.
- Generic Name: Thalidomide
- Strength: 100 mg
- Route: Oral
- Drug Class: Immunomodulatory agent
- Common Brands: Thalix®, Thalomid®, Thalera®, Thalirex®
âś… ADVANTAGES
- Effective in multiple myeloma as first-line or relapse therapy (often in combination)
- Reduces inflammation in ENL (a complication of leprosy)
- Oral dosing is convenient
- Shows anti-angiogenic effects (inhibits tumor blood supply)
⚠️ PRECAUTIONS
- Strictly contraindicated in pregnancy
- Causes severe congenital deformities (phocomelia, organ defects)
- Requires two reliable contraceptive methods
- Regular pregnancy tests mandatory
- May cause:
- Peripheral neuropathy (potentially irreversible)
- Sedation or dizziness
- Blood clots (DVT/PE) – consider anticoagulant prophylaxis
- Bradycardia, rash, constipation
- Hematologic toxicity – monitor CBC
🧊 STORAGE
- Store at 15°C to 30°C
- Protect from light, heat, and moisture
- Store in original packaging
- Keep out of reach of children and not to be shared
👨‍⚕️ PATIENT ADVICE
- Female patients:
- Must enroll in a pregnancy prevention program
- Use 2 forms of birth control during and 4 weeks after treatment
- Male patients:
- Use condoms during therapy and for 90 days after
- Avoid pregnancy during and 4 weeks after treatment
- Monitor for:
- Tingling, numbness (nerve damage)
- Leg swelling, chest pain (clot symptoms)
- Drowsiness – avoid driving or machinery
- Report rash, fever, bleeding, or signs of infection
📦 PACKAGING
- Usually packed in:
- HDPE bottles or blister strips
- Pack sizes: 10, 28, or 30 capsules
- Capsules are typically opaque white to off-white
- Packaging includes bold warnings:
- “Do Not Use in Pregnancy”
- “Cytotoxic – Handle with Care”
- Pregnancy risk symbols