Description
Pomalyst (Pomalidomide) is a prescription drug used to treat multiple myeloma, a type of cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow. It is typically prescribed to adults who have previously received at least two other therapies for multiple myeloma, including a proteasome inhibitor and lenalidomide. It is also used to treat AIDS-related Kaposi sarcoma (KS) in certain people. As an immunomodulatory drug, Pomalyst helps modify and regulate the immune system to fight against cancer cells.
Fact Table
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Formula
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C13H11N3O4
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License
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US FDA, US DailyMed, EU EMA
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Bioavailability
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73%
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Legal status
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Rx-Only
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Chemical Name
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Pomalidomide
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Elimination half-life
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7.5 hours
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Dosage (Strength)
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4mg
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Pregnancy
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it may cause birth defects or death to an unborn baby
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Brands
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Pomalyst
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Protein binding
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12–44%
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PubChem CID
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134780
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MedlinePlus
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a613030
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ChEBI
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72690
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ATC code
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L04AX06
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DrugBank
|
DB08910
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KEGG
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D08976
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Routes of administration
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By mouth
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Directions
For multiple myeloma treatment, the initial dose for adults is typically 4 milligrams (mg) taken orally once a day. This medication is usually taken on days 1 to 21 of a 28-day cycle, which is repeated every 28 days. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed and tolerated, depending on your medical condition and response to treatment. It is crucial to always follow your doctor's instructions and never alter the dose without their guidance.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Pomalyst is pomalidomide. In addition to the active ingredient, Pomalyst may contain several inactive ingredients that contribute to the formulation and stability of the medication. These may include mannitol, pregelatinized starch, and sodium stearyl fumarate.
Contraindications
Avoid using Pomalyst if you have a known history of hypersensitivity to Pomalidomide or any of the components. Pomalyst is also contraindicated in pregnancy due to its potential to cause severe birth defects or embryo-fetal death.
Cautions
- Before starting Pomalyst, inform your healthcare provider of the following:
- Any medical conditions, including liver or kidney problems.
- Whether you smoke.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Pomalyst can cause life-threatening birth defects.
- If you're taking medication for multiple myeloma, be aware that adding Pomalyst to your treatment could increase health risks. It's important to talk to your doctor about this because combining it with certain other drugs can be dangerous.
- Neutropenia, a condition where you have an abnormally low count of a type of white blood cell, can occur with this treatment. Since these cells are important for fighting off infections, regular blood tests are necessary to keep an eye on your cell counts.
- Liver problems have been reported by some patients, and in rare cases, these problems can be life-threatening. That's why doctors routinely check your liver function with blood tests, usually every month, to make sure the liver is working properly.
- Serious skin reactions can be a sign that you should stop taking Pomalyst. If you notice your skin peeling or blistering, contact your doctor right away as this medication may need to be stopped.
- For those with a lot of cancer cells, there's a risk of tumor lysis syndrome, where the body can't handle all the waste from dying cells when cancer treatment starts to work. Your doctor will want to keep a close eye on you and may take steps to prevent this.
- Allergic reactions are also something to watch out for. Symptoms like swelling of the face or difficulty breathing are serious and mean you should stop taking Pomalyst and seek medical help immediately.
Side Effects
While Pomalyst can be effective, it may cause some side effects. The most common Pomalyst side effects may include fatigue, weakness, constipation, diarrhea, back pain, shortness of breath, and nausea. Serious side effects may include blood clots, heart attacks, stroke, and fetal birth defects. If you experience any side effects that persist or worsen, seek medical advice from a healthcare provider.
References:
- Pomalyst (Pomalidomide) Product Monograph. Princeton, NJ: Bristol Myers Squibb; 2023.
- Pomalyst (Pomalidomide) Drug Label Information. Princeton, NJ: Bristol Myers Squibb; 2023.
About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)
Dr. Sison graduated with honors from the University of Florida. He began his career in pharmacy counseling patients in a community setting and later served in hospitals and clinics. He has also worked in medication therapy management services. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 14400