Pomalyst is an antineoplastic used in combination with dexamethasone for the treatment of multiple myelomas in patients who have received at least 2 other drugs that did not work well.
This drug is used in patients with multiple myelomas that has worsened during treatment or within 60 days of the last treatment.
This drug works by interfering with the growth of multiple myeloma cells, which are eventually destroyed in the body. This drug is only available through a restricted distribution program.
You will have to read and sign papers that explain how the medicine is used when you pick up your prescription.
Before using Pomalyst, you must know all about the risks and complications associated with it. Inform your healthcare provider for any allergic reactions to these drugs or any other drugs, foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals.
Carefully read the label of non-prescription drugs for any possible allergic reaction or contraindications. Studies in children regarding the correlation of age to the effects of pomalidomide have not been performed while safety and efficacy have not been established.
Studies in the elderly have not demonstrated any geriatric-specific problems that would limit the utility of pomalidomide. Fetal abnormalities have been reported in studies of pregnant women and animals.
This drug is contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant because the risk clearly outweighs any possible benefit. Infant risk is still undetermined when using this drug during breastfeeding.
Discuss with your healthcare professional about the potential risks and benefits of taking this drug while breastfeeding.
Drugs should not be taken together to prevent any interactions but in necessary cases inquire your healthcare provider regarding the adjustments in dosage or any other necessary precautions to prevent any unwanted side effects.
Inform your healthcare professional if you are taking any other drugs such as Ciprofloxacin, Enoxacin, Fluvoxamine, or Pixantrone.
Intake of specific food or using alcohol or tobacco with this drug is associated with an increased risk of certain side effects. Your healthcare professional can give you special instructions about the use of food, alcohol, or tobacco.
Inform your healthcare provider for any other medical problems such as anemia, blood clots, bone marrow problems, deep vein thrombosis, neutropenia, pulmonary embolism, thrombocytopenia, kidney disease, or liver disease.
3 Proper Usage
To use Pomalyst properly, you must follow all instructions given by your doctor. Take this drug exactly as directed on the label or as prescribed by your healthcare professional.
This drug must be taken with water and on an empty stomach, at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after a meal. Breaking, chewing, or opening the capsules is not recommended.
Wash your skin with soap and water immediately if you accidentally open or handle the medicine in the capsule. The dose of this drug will be variable for different patients.
The directions on the label or the prescription by your healthcare professional should be followed. The dosage of this drug you take depends on the medical problem for which you are using this drug.
Adults with multiple myelomas are initially given 4 milligrams once a day. Your healthcare professional may adjust your dose if necessary. This drug is usually taken on days 1 to 21 of a 28-day cycle.
This schedule is repeated again every 28 days. Use and dose in children must be determined by your healthcare professional. A missed dose should be taken as soon as possible.
However, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule if it is almost time for your next dose.
Store the drug in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing. Keep out of the reach of children.
Dispose any outdated or expired drugs and ask your healthcare professional for the proper disposal of the drugs.
4 Precautions to Take
Before using Pomalyst, there are some precautions you must take. Regular visits should be made to your healthcare provider to track your progress and to monitor the effectiveness of the drug.
Unwanted effects can be screened using blood tests. Check with your healthcare professional if your or your child's symptoms do not improve or if they become worse within a few days.
Proper birth control measures are advised and report any symptoms of allergic reactions to your health care professional. Smoking is not recommended while taking this drug.
Check with your healthcare professional before you take any other prescription or nonprescription drugs, and herbal or vitamin supplements.
As with many medications, there are several potential side effects associated with Pomalyst. Side effects may vary for each individual and prompt medical attention should be given if they occur.
Seek advice from your healthcare professional immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms such as:
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. As your body adjusts to the medicine, the side effects will slowly disappear. Ask your healthcare professional about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
If any of the following side effects persists or are inconvenient, or if you notice any other effects, or if you have any questions about them, consult with your health care professional. Report any side effects to the FDA hotline at 1-800-FDA-1088.
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