lenalidomide Health Article

How should I take lenalidomide?

While you are using lenalidomide, you will be required to be listed on a patient registry and participate in occasional telephone surveys. You will be limited to a 28-day supply of lenalidomide each time your prescription is refilled. You may continue getting refills only if you participate fully in the RevAssist program and commit to all agreements.

Lenalidomide should be used exactly as your doctor has prescribed it for you. Do not use more of the medication than recommended. Do not take lenalidomide for longer than your doctor has prescribed.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

Take each dose with a full glass of water.

Swallow the capsule whole, without breaking it open.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood will need to be tested every week for the first two months of treatment, and then every month after that. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

You must not donate blood or sperm while you are using lenalidomide.

This medication comes with patient instructions for safe and effective use. Follow these directions carefully. Never give lenalidomide to another person, even if he or she has the same disorder for which you are being treated.

Store lenalidomide at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

An overdose of lenalidomide is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms.

What should I avoid while taking lenalidomide?

Do not donate blood or sperm while you are using lenalidomide.

What are the possible side effects of lenalidomide?

Stop using lenalidomide and get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, coughing up blood;

• pain or swelling in your arm, thigh, or calf;

• easy bruising, unusual bleeding or weakness; or

• fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Talk with your doctor if you have any of these side effects:

• nausea, diarrhea, constipation;

• dry or itchy skin;

• runny or stuffy nose;

• muscle or joint pain;

• headache; or

• tiredness.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect lenalidomide?

There may be other drugs that can affect lenalidomide. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist has more information about lenalidomide written for health professionals that you may read.