💊 DESCRIPTION
Thalidomide 50 mg Capsule is an immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory agent primarily used in the treatment of multiple myeloma, erythema nodosum leprosum (ENL), and some off-label cancers or autoimmune conditions. It was historically withdrawn due to teratogenic effects, but now used under strict regulation.
- Generic Name: Thalidomide
- Strength: 50 mg per capsule
- Route: Oral
- Class: Immunomodulatory agent
✅ ADVANTAGES
- Effective as part of combination therapy for multiple myeloma
- Strong anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory effects
- Used in leprosy-related complications like ENL
- Oral administration – convenient dosing
⚠️ PRECAUTIONS
- STRICT pregnancy prevention:
- Causes severe birth defects (phocomelia) – contraindicated in pregnancy
- Use 2 forms of contraception and regular pregnancy testing
- Peripheral neuropathy: dose-limiting and potentially irreversible
- Sedation/drowsiness – caution in driving or operating machinery
- Thromboembolism risk: may need prophylactic anticoagulants
- Hematologic toxicity: monitor for neutropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia
- Avoid alcohol and CNS depressants
💊 DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION
- Dosage varies by indication:
- Multiple myeloma: 100–200 mg/day (in combination therapy)
- ENL: Start at 100–300 mg/day, then taper
- Usually taken once daily at bedtime to minimize sedation
- Swallow whole, with water
- Do not crush or chew
🧊 STORAGE
- Store at 15°C to 30°C
- Protect from moisture and light
- Keep in original packaging
- Keep out of reach of children
👨⚕️ PATIENT ADVICE
- Women of childbearing age must:
- Use two forms of contraception
- Have negative pregnancy tests before and during treatment
- Avoid pregnancy for at least 4 weeks before, during, and 4 weeks after treatment
- Men must use condoms during treatment and for 90 days after (due to drug presence in semen)
- Do not share the medication with anyone
- Report immediately:
- Numbness, tingling in hands/feet (neuropathy)
- Shortness of breath, chest pain (clot symptoms)
- Severe skin rash or fever
📦 PACKAGING
- Available in HDPE bottles or blister strips
- Common pack sizes: 10, 28, or 30 capsules
- Capsules typically opaque white or off-white, marked with strength
- Warning labels: “Not to be used in pregnancy”, “Cytotoxic”, “Special handling precautions”