Thalidomide

Drug #1538

This agent was introduced in Europe in 1957 and 1958 and, based on animal tests then commonly used, was promoted as a 'nontoxic' hypnotic. In 1961, the first reports were published suggesting that thalidomide was responsible for a dramatic increase in the incidence of a rare birth defect called phocomelia, a condition involving shortening or complete absence of limbs. Because of this association the drug was withdrawn from sale worldwide. Thalidomide is now a well-established agent for treating refractory or relapsed multiple myeloma. Recently it has been used in combination with dexamethasone, and proved effective in palliating symptoms.

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Primary Characteristics

It is of Synthetic origin.

Molecular Weight: 258.2 · Solubility in Water: sparingly · Solubility in Alcohol: Insoluble · Non-proprietary name: Thalidomide.

Pharmacokinetics

Distribution: Thalidomide has a volume of distribution is 120.69 -/+ 45.36. plasma protein binding is not known.

Elimination: plasma half-life is 8.7 hr, renal excretion is 0.6 +/- 0.2 % unchanged.

Indications

Thalidomide is primarily indicated in conditions like Graft versus host disease, Hypnotic, Insomnia, Leprosum, Lupus erythematosus, Orogenital ulceration, Sedative.

Contraindications

Thalidomide is contraindicated in conditions like Pregnancy.

Dosage

Thalidomide's dosage details are as follows:

Dose	Single Dose	Frequency	Route	Instructions
Adult Dosage
200 mg	200 mg	Every 24h	PO	Multiple Myeloma: Should be taken with water, preferably at bedtime and at least 1-hour after the evening meal.
Paediatric Dosage (20kg)
No data.
Neonatal Dosage (3kg)
No data.

Drug Interactions

Unknown3 interactions

Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.

Side Effects

Thalidomide produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Neurological disturbances, Phocomelia. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.

Thalidomide is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Constipation , Increased plasma triglycerides, Menstrual irregularity, Myxedema, Nausea, Rashes , Xerostomia .

Warnings / Precautions

Thalidomide can cause severe birth defects in humans. Patients should be instructed to take thalidomide only as prescribed and not to share their thalidomide with anyone else. Thalidomide frequently causes drowsiness and somnolence. Patients should be instructed to avoid situations where drowsiness may be a problem and not to take other medications that may cause drowsiness without adequate medical advice. Thalidomide has been shown to be present in the serum and semen of patients receiving thalidomide. If healthcare providers or other care givers are exposed to body fluids from patients receiving thalidomide, appropriate precautions should be utilized, such as wearing gloves to prevent the potential cutaneous exposure to thalidomide or the exposed area should be washed with soap and water.

Interference in Pathology

Thalidomide may interfere in the diagnosis of Liver Function Test (LFT) , Increased Alkaline Phosphatase Levels, Increased in serum creatinin.

Available Brands

Click on a strength to view available brands.

Single Ingredient

Caps

100 mg 50 mg

Storage Conditions

Thalidomide should be stored Caps.

Drug Classification

1.24.3 — Drugs used in anxiety and sleep disorders

Manufacturers

Manufacturers of Thalidomide in Pakistan:

Atco