Thalomid Oral
In Depth
- Uses and How to Use
- Dosage and Storage
- Precautions and Side Effects
- Drug Interactions
- Drug Images
Pronounced: (tha-LID-oh-mide)
Thalomid Oral Uses
This medication is used to treat or prevent certain skin conditions related to Hansen's disease, once known as leprosy (erythema nodosum leprosum). Thalidomide is also used with other drugs to treat a certain type of cancer (multiple myeloma). Thalidomide belongs to a class of drugs known as immunomodulators. It works in Hansen's disease by reducing swelling and redness (inflammation). It also reduces the formation of blood vessels that feed tumors.
How To Use Thalomid Oral
Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using thalidomide and each time you get a refill. Read and sign the informed consent provided by your doctor. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth with water, usually once daily at bedtime at least 1 hour after the evening meal or as directed by your doctor.
Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and the risk of serious side effects may be increased.
Keep the capsules in their blister pack until ready to use. If any of the powder from the capsule gets on your skin, wash the area with soap and water.
Since this drug can be absorbed through the skin and lungs, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle this medication or breathe the dust from broken capsules. All people should wash their hands carefully after handling this drug.
This medication passes into body fluids (e.g., urine). Avoid contact with body fluids from people taking this drug. Therefore, wear protective clothing (e.g., gloves) when handling these body fluids (e.g., during cleanup). If contact occurs, wash skin with soap and water.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. If you are taking this medication for Hansen's disease, your skin condition may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens after 2 weeks.
