Thalidomide: how to take it safely
Thalomid
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats multiple myeloma, and some skin complications of leprosy.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow capsules whole with water. Do not open or crush them.
- Wash your hands well after touching the capsules.
When to take it
Take it once a day at bedtime, as it can make you drowsy.
Take it with
With or without food.
What to avoid
- Pregnancy. It can cause severe birth defects. Women must have pregnancy tests and use strict contraception. Men must use condoms.
- Alcohol and sedatives.
- Giving blood or sharing the capsules.
- Driving or using machines if you feel drowsy.
- Tell your doctor if you have had blood clots.
- Live vaccines unless your cancer team says so.
- Contact with people who have infections such as chickenpox or flu.
Possible side effects
Drowsiness, constipation, numbness or tingling in hands and feet, rash, dizziness.
Get help if
Numbness or pain in hands or feet, a swollen painful leg, chest pain, breathlessness, fever or a rash: get urgent help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.