Lenalidomide

Lenalidomide is an immunomodulatory derivative (IMiD) indicated for treatment of patients with multiple myeloma, in particular patients who have received at least one prior form of therapy. Lenalidomide, in combination with dexamethasone, has been shown to slow disease progression.

Lenalidomide is also indicated for managing anemia that can occur as a result of certain types of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS).

Introduced in 2004, lenalidomide is a derivative of thalidomide that has shown to be more chemically potent, with fewer side effects. Similar to other immunomodulatory derivatives, lenalidomide works within the bone marrow to improve immune system response and reduce inflammation in the body.

If you or a loved one is seeking treatment for multiple myeloma or myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), lenalidomide may be an option. At Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA), our integrative cancer care team can educate you about a range of conventional and complementary/alternative therapies, so you can make the best decision for your needs.

To learn more about our individualized approach to cancer treatment at CTCA, chat now with one of our Oncology Information Specialists or call 800-615-3055 today.

As is the case with many drugs, in addition to the desired results, lenalidomide may also bring about some unwanted side effects. While most of the known side effects of lenalidomide are not what would be classified as serious side effects, it is still important to be aware of potential side effects when deciding if lenalidomide would be beneficial in your cancer treatment plan.

Lenalidomide, like most medications, carries the risk of inducing an allergic reaction, which requires immediate medical attention. Common signs of an allergic reaction may include:

• Development of hives or a rash
• Problems breathing and/or tightness in the chest
• Swelling in the head and neck, including the lips, tongue, throat, or face

While not normally signs of an allergic reaction, lenalidomide can also present some serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. These side effects may include:

• Flu-like symptoms
• Weakness
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Coughing up blood
• Shortness of breath or chest pain
• Swelling or pain in your arms/legs
• Blood clots in the veins and lungs

Lenalidomide carries less serious side effects, which are more likely to occur. These less serious side effects of lenalidomide can include:

• Fatigue
• Nasal congestion
• Headache
• Itchy or dry skin
• Nausea
• Constipation/diarrhea
• Pain in muscles/joints

This list of side effects should not be considered an all-inclusive list. If you begin experiencing side effects from lenalidomide that are not included on this list, please contact your doctor to learn whether your side effects require medical attention or whether you should continue taking lenalidomide as prescribed.

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that occurs in blood plasma cells, causing them to proliferate in the bone marrow and negatively affect the natural functioning of the immune system.

Lenalidomide is an oral medicine indicated for use, in combination with dexamethasone, for improving immune system response and slowing the progression of multiple myeloma in patients who have relapsed after receiving at least one prior form of therapy.

Deletion 5q Myelodysplastic Syndromes

Also called del 5q MDS, deletion 5q myelodysplastic syndrome is a disorder which occurs when bone marrow does not produce enough healthy red blood cells.

Lenalidomide is indicated for use in treating patients with low- or intermediate-1 risk del 5q MDS, who require frequent blood transfusions to manage symptoms of anemia. Because lenalidomide improves immune system functioning, it may help reduce or eliminate entirely the need for blood transfusions.

Your cancer care team at Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) is ready to discuss the advantages, as well as the potential drawbacks, of using lenalidomide as a part of your cancer treatment plan. To learn more, please click to chat or contact an Oncology Information Specialist today at 800-615-3055 today.