About thalidomide
Immunomodulatory medicine
Used for
- Multiple myeloma, usually with dexamethasone or another cancer medicine
- Erythema nodosum leprosum, a complication of leprosy
Usual adult dose
Multiple myeloma: commonly 200 mg once daily with dexamethasone. Leprosy complications: commonly 100–300 mg daily; specialist-directed.
Common side effects
- Sleepiness and dizziness
- Constipation
- Nerve damage causing numbness or tingling
- Blood clots and low blood counts
Important warnings
- Causes severe birth defects or fetal death; strict pregnancy-prevention controls apply.
- Can cause nerve damage, which may become permanent.
- May cause blood clots, especially with multiple-myeloma treatment.
- May cause sleepiness; avoid driving if affected.
Pregnancy
Must not be used during pregnancy. It can cause severe birth defects or fetal death; strict pregnancy testing and prevention requirements apply.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment.
Interactions
- Alcohol, opioids, and sedatives can increase sleepiness.
- Dexamethasone and some cancer treatments can increase blood-clot risk.
- Medicines that slow the heart may increase slow-heartbeat risk.
- Hormonal contraceptives may increase blood-clot risk.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.