Pomalidomide: Uses, Side Effects, and Medicines

Pomalidomide is a medication that is applied in the management of some types of blood cancer. It is an immunomodulatory medication, and Pomalidomide works by stimulating the immune system and preventing the growth of cancer cells. It is an extremely potent medication that has contributed to the treatment of multiple myeloma in patients who have previously used other forms of medication. here we will talk about Pomalidomide uses, side effects, advantages, dosage schedule, and safety measures.

Uses of Pomalidomide

1. Multiple Myeloma

Pomalidomide is employed to treat multiple myeloma in adults, a form of cancer arising in plasma cells in the bone marrow. Pomalidomide is usually prescribed when other drugs such as Lenalidomide and Bortezomib are not effective.

Pomalidomide is typically taken with Dexamethasone (a steroid) to enhance its effectiveness against cancer.

2. Kaposi’s Sarcoma

Pomalidomide is also prescribed for use in treating Kaposi’s Sarcoma, either HIV-negative or if other treatment is not suitable.

3. Other Study Uses

Although not yet fully approved for use with other diseases, research is being conducted to determine the effectiveness of Pomalidomide in treating myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and other cancers.

Pomalidomide Side Effects:

Like with any drug, Pomalidomide causes side effects. Some of its common and serious side effects are:

Common Side Effects of Pomalidomide:

  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Decreased number of red blood cells (Anemia)
  • Constipation
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Swelling in hands, ankles, feet, arms (Edema)
  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness or headache
  • Rash and skin reaction

Serious Side Effects of Pomalidomide:

  • Decreased white blood cell count (Neutropenia), infection-prone
  • Blood clots (Deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism)
  • Liver problems, as reflected by yellowing of eyes or skin (Jaundice)
  • Severe Allergic Reactions (Hives, shortness of breath, swelling)
  • Peripheral neuropathy (Napping, numbness, pain in hands and feet)
  • Inform your doctor right away if you experience any unusual symptoms while on Pomalidomide.

Advantages of Pomalid Capsule

  1. Highly effective in Relapsed and Refractory Multiple Myeloma: Pomalidomide is a third-line drug that has proven very effective in patients who have lost response to other drugs.
  2. Increases Overall Survival Rate: By suppressing the growth of cancer cells, Pomalidomide will improve survival and enhance the quality of life for most patients.
  3. Convenience Oral Therapy: While other chemotherapeutic drugs are administered in another mode, Pomalidomide is administered through a capsule whereby the patient can swallow it quickly from home without necessarily going to the hospital.
  4. Combination Therapy: Pomalidomide together with Dexamethasone increases the ability of the body to overcome cancer more than both drugs taken independently.

How to Use Pomalid Capsule

Dosage and Administration:

Take oral pomalidomide once daily on selected days of a 28-day cycle as instructed by your oncologist.

Swallow the capsule with water with or without food.

Don’t chew, crush, or break the capsule since it increases side effects or decreases its potency.

Maintain your doctor-recommended dose and cycle strictly.

Missed Dose:

  • If a dose has been missed and within 12 hours, take the dose as soon as possible.
  • If more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
  • Do not double the dose for a missed dose.

Safety Tip

1. Pregnancy and Birth Control

Pomalidomide is also well-documented to induce serious birth defects. Pregnant women should not be given this drug.

Pregnant females should use two effective forms of birth control during treatment and at least 4 weeks before and after stopping the treatment with Pomalidomide.

Men taking Pomalidomide should use condoms during sexual intercourse to protect their partners.

2. Lactation:

Do not take Pomalidomide during breastfeeding because it is unknown whether the drug is excreted in breast milk.

3. Blood Test Monitoring

Regular blood work should be done to monitor blood counts, liver, and kidney function.

4. Risk of Infection:

Stay away from people who have infections and practice good personal hygiene because of the risk of compromised immunity.

5. Motor Vehicle and Heavy Machinery Operation:

Do not drive a motor vehicle or operate heavy machinery if you feel dizzy or sleepy.

6. Alcohol:

Reduce or avoid alcohol as alcohol will cause additive effects to side effects like dizziness or liver disease.

Conclusion

Pomalidomide is an anti-myeloma drug that is used to prolong the lifespan of myeloma patients and other patients with miscellaneous cancer. The medication has to be kept properly and taken cautiously under the supervision of medical professionals. If you or your loved one has been prescribed Pomalidomide, Singhla Medicos will help you deliver genuine medicine at affordable prices with correct information for safe dosage. Always follow your doctor’s advice.

FAQ's of Pomalidomide

 Pomalidomide is used in the treatment of multiple myeloma and Kaposi's Sarcoma, mostly if the other treatment is not successful.

 It relies on the physician's advice, disease condition, and tolerance to the medicine. The therapy is usually cycled and periodically monitored.

Avoid pregnancy, use two forms of birth control, and have pregnancy tests before, during, and after treatment. It is against pregnancy.

Take it immediately if missed it in the last 12 hours. Miss the dose and take it the next day if more than 12 hours. Never double dose.

 Always talk to your doctor before you begin taking new drugs, including those that you can buy over the counter, as they may interact with each other.

 Though Pomalidomide could delay cancer growth and manage symptoms, it is not a cure but rather a successful treatment component of cancer.

 We at Singhla Medicos provide authentic and affordable Pomalidomide capsules to Indian patients as well as patients around the world. Call to find out more.