About pomalidomide
Immunomodulatory anticancer medicine
Used for
- Multiple myeloma, usually with other medicines after previous treatments.
- Kaposi sarcoma in certain adults with HIV or other immune suppression.
Usual adult dose
Multiple myeloma: 4 mg by mouth once daily on days 1–21 of each 28-day cycle, with prescribed combination therapy. Kaposi sarcoma: 5 mg once daily on days 1–21 of each 28-day cycle.
Common side effects
- Low blood counts, increasing infection or bleeding risk.
- Fatigue, fever, constipation, nausea, or diarrhea.
- Blood clots, swelling, or shortness of breath.
- Numbness or tingling in hands or feet.
Important warnings
- Causes severe birth defects; strict pregnancy-prevention requirements apply.
- Can cause dangerously low blood counts; regular blood tests are required.
- Increases blood-clot risk; clot-prevention treatment may be prescribed.
- Capsules must be handled and disposed of carefully; do not open or crush.
Pregnancy
Must not be used during pregnancy. It can cause severe birth defects; pregnancy testing and strict contraception requirements apply.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for at least one week after the final dose.
Interactions
- Strong CYP1A2 inhibitors, such as ciprofloxacin or fluvoxamine, can increase pomalidomide levels.
- Smoking can reduce pomalidomide levels through CYP1A2 induction.
- Medicines that increase clot risk may add to the risk of blood clots.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.