, or , is an immunomodulatory agent. It is used in patients with multiple myeloma who have received at least two prior therapies that include ( or another proteasome inhibitor) and also Revlimid (). The patients must also have demonstrated disease progression on or within 60 days of completing the last therapy.
is similar to Revlimid and Thalomid () but is more potent.
works by slowing or killing the multiple myeloma cells. binds a protein in multiple myeloma cells called cereblon, which is what causes the multiple myeloma cell to die. Alternatively, can also stimulate the immune system so that the blood vessels and other substances surrounding a tumor (the tumor microenvironment) won’t feed the cancer cell’s growth anymore.
is the most effective in patients who have relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma after receiving multiple treatment courses using alternative agents, such as and Revlimid. It is also effective in patients who have high-risk multiple myeloma and in those patients who experience kidney problems.
The side effects caused by will vary depending on the patient’s health history and at what stage of multiple myeloma they are in. For the most part, (along with another low-dose ), is well-tolerated by many patients. However, the most common side effects include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Low white blood cell counts (neutropenia)
- Low red blood cell counts (anemia)
- Gastrointestinal effects (such as constipation, nausea, or diarrhea)
- Shortness of breath
- Upper respiratory infection
- Back pain
- Fever
The serious side effects are:
- Low white blood cell counts
- Pneumonia
- Low red blood cell counts
- Low platelets (thrombocytopenia)
- Fatigue and weakness
If a patient experiences low white blood cell or platelet counts, or other serious side effects, they may seek a doctor to adjust their dosage of .
Some patients may develop blood clots, therefore patients are also prescribed aspirin or another blood thinner to counteract this.
Do not take if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant.
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