Thalidomide

Indications & Dose:

• BY MOUTH

Adult

Aphthous ulceration:

PO 100 – 200 mg qd until response, then 50 – 100 mg qd

Discoid lupus erythematosus:

PO 400 mg qd until response, then 50 – 100 mg qd

Erythema nodosum leprosum:

PO 100 – 400 mg qd until response, then 25 – 100 mg qd

Graft vs. host disease:

PO 800 – 1600 mg qd until response, then taper by 25% every 2 wk

Contraindications:

Women of child-bearing potential unless: 1. An effective form of contraception has been used for at least 1 mo before therapy, during therapy, and for 1 mo following discontinuation of therapy, and 2. Pregnancy has been definitely excluded through a negative pregnancy test within 2 wk prior to thalidomide therapy. Men must use barrier contraception if sexually active with women of child-bearing potential

Side Effects:

CNS: Anxiety, dizziness, headache (12%), neuropathy, paresthesia, somnolence (38%),tremor, vertigo
CV: Edema
EENT: Dry mouth
GI: Anorexia, constipation, elevated transaminase ;eve;s (10%). Nausea
GU: Impotence
HEME: Anemia, leucopenia (20%)
METAB: Hypothyroidism
SKIN: Pruritus, rash (25%)

Cautions:

Precautions:

Bradycardia, photosensitization

Interaction:

Drugs
Barbiturates: Additive sedative effects
Chlorpromazine: Additive sedative effects
Ethanol: Additive sedative effects
Reserpine: Additive sedative effects

Warnings:

Adverse Effects:

Lactations:

Pregnancy category X: breast milk excretion unknown

Special Precautions:

Counselling:

Side Effects Or Adverse Reactions:

Patient And Carer Advice: