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Lenalidomide (len-a-LID-oh-mide) is used for the treatment of certain types
of myelodysplastic syndromes, for multiple myeloma, and other conditions.
Before taking this medication, be sure that your prescribing physician is
aware if you have any of the following conditions: history of problems with
this medication or thalidomide; risk of blood clots; kidney disease; or if
you are pregnant or breast-feeding. This product contains lactose and
should not be used by patients with lactose intolerance.
Take this medication as prescribed by your physician. It may be taken with
food. Swallow the capsules whole with a glass of water. Taking it at
approximately the same time each day will help you to remember.
If you miss a dose, take the dose when you remember unless it is more than
12 hours since your last dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and
resume your usual schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a
missed dose.
Both women and men who are sexually active should use birth control while
taking this medication.
This drug is related to a drug that is known to cause birth defects. Women
of child-bearing potential must not take this medication unless they use
contraception using two simultaneous methods. Determine appropriate methods
of contraception in discussion with your physician. Contraception must
start one month before beginning this medication, continue throughout
therapy, and continue at least one month after stopping. Before starting
therapy with this medication, two negative pregnancy tests are required,
and repeated pregnancy testing may be done during therapy. Contraception is
required even in women with amenorrhea or with a history of infertility.
Men having sexual contact with a woman of childbearing age must use a
condom while taking this medication, even if a vasectomy has been
performed. Do not donate semen during therapy or for 4 weeks following
therapy.
Adverse interactions with other medications are possible while taking this
drug. Ensure that your physician and pharmacist are aware of all of the
medications that you are taking, including natural health and herbal
products.
Common adverse effects include low neutrophil counts, low platelet counts,
diarrhea, rash and fatigue.
If unusual bleeding or bruising, chest pain, leg pain, swollen arms or
legs, difficulty breathing, fever or infection occur, or any other
unexpected or serious reactions, notify your physician.
This medication may make you tired or drowsy. Avoid operating a car or
dangerous machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
If you have experienced any unexpected or serious reactions to this drug,
this can be reported to Health Canada's monitoring program (tollfree
telephone 1-866-234-2345, tollfree fax 1-866-678-6789). Note that this is
not an emergency number. Also ensure that your physicians are informed of
any adverse effects and record this for the future.
Store this medication in a labelled container, in a dry, cool place, out of
the reach of children.
