Revlimid Information:

• What

What is Revlimid?

Revlimid is the drug lenalidomide, an immunomodulatory chemotherapy drug prescribed to slow tumor growth. It may be used to treat myelodysplastic syndrome and mantle cell lymphoma; it may also be prescribed along with dexamethasone to treat multiple myeloma. It works by killing abnormal blood cells in bone marrow and helping with the production of normal blood cells.

• How

How do I take Revlimid?

Revlimid is administered as a capsule that is taken orally, once a day with water and without regard for food. The dosing cycle will be determined by the physician based on the condition being treated and the medical profile of the patient. Follow the dosing instructions and regimen exactly. Do not share this medication with anyone. Swallow the capsule whole; do not open, crush, split, or chew it. If you come into contact with an opened capsule or any of the drug in the capsule, wash that area of the body thoroughly with warm soapy water. If the medication comes in contact with the eyes, mouth, or nose, flush with water.

• Precautions

Before taking Revlimid, tell your doctor if:

• You are allergic to lenalidomide or any of the ingredients in the Revlimid drug capsules
• You are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or are nursing a child
• You are taking any medications, vitamins, or supplements
• You have ever taken thalidomide and developed a rash during treatment
• You are taking digoxin, darbepoetin, epoetin alfa, or medications containing estrogen including hormone replacement therapy or contraceptives
• You have kidney or liver disease
• You have a history of blood clots or hypertension
• You have elevated cholesterol or triglyceride levels
• You smoke
• You are lactose intolerant
• Side Effects

What are the possible side effects of taking Revlimid?

Some side effects have been reported by those taking Revlimid. These include abnormal hair growth in women; burning or tingling hands or feet; altered tasting ability; constipation; diminished sexual desire or ability; diminished sense of touch; depression; diarrhea; sleep difficulties; dizziness; dry skin; pain in back, bones, muscles, or joints; lost appetite; burning or pain in the throat, mouth, or tongue; painful urination; stomach pain; sweating; tremors; weakness; or weight loss. If these conditions appear and persist or worsen, contact your doctor for Revlimid patient assistance. Severe side effects that require immediate medical attention include blistering, peeling, or shedding skin; chest pain; confusion; speech, balance or coordination problems; dark-colored urine, irregular heart rate; muscle cramps; seizures; swollen glands in the neck; tiredness; or symptoms of liver problems such as yellowing of the skin or eyes.

• Missed Dose

What if I forget to take a dose of Revlimid?

If you forget to take your scheduled dose of Revlimid, take it as soon as you remember and are able, unless there are fewer than 12 hours remaining until the next one. In this instance, skip the missed dose and start over at the next scheduled time. Do not increase the number of capsules taken or change the schedule to make up for a missed dose.

• Storage

How do I store Revlimid?

Keep Revlimid tightly sealed in its original container, out of the reach of children and away from extremes of temperature and humidity; do not store it in the bathroom. Return any unused or expired doses to your pharmacist, doctor, or the manufacturer for disposal.

• Overdose

What happens if I overdose on Revlimid?

In the event of an overdose, contact the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for Revlimid patient assistance. If the individual has stopped breathing or lost consciousness, contact Emergency Services at 911.

• Additional Info

Warnings

Revlimid will not be prescribed to pregnant women as it can cause severe, life-threatening birth defects. Only patients (both men and women) who are registered with Revlimid REMS may take this medication and only doctors and pharmacists who are registered with Revlimid REMS can prescribe and dispense this medication. Stop taking Revlimid immediately and contact your doctor if you become pregnant. Women must use at least two types of birth control while taking this medication; men taking Revlimid must wear a latex condom during sexual activity. Do not breastfeed (for women) or donate sperm (for men) while taking this medication, during any breaks in the cycle, or for 4 weeks after stopping its use. This medication may cause confusion or balance and coordination problems; do not drive or operate heavy machinery until its effects are known.

 

Brand Names

Revlimid is the brand name of the chemotherapy medication lenalidomide; it is not available as any other brand. At HelpRx, Revlimid cost-cutting coupons are available that can lower prices of this drug by up to 75% at local pharmacies. Those who do not have a Revlimid copay card or insurance can find the savings they need by downloading and using one of these coupons at their favorite pharmacy.