Pomalidomide

This page provides brief information on the drug pomalidomide, covering its indications, dosage and administration details, mechanism of action, associated brands with their strengths, as well as warnings and common side effects.

Context and Approval Date

Approved for medical use on February 8, 2013, pomalidomide is an antiangiogenic agent designed to inhibit the formation of blood vessels.

Mechanism of Action of Pomalidomide

Derived from thalidomide, pomalidomide serves as an antiangiogenic agent. It operates by inhibiting the development of blood vessels that nourish cancer cells, fostering immune system attacks on cancer cells. Additionally, it halts the cell cycle and triggers programmed cell death in cancer cells.

All Substitutes

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Product Packaging Size Manufacturer Price
Pomalid 2mg capsule 21 Capsules Natco Pharma INR 4780
Bdpoma 2mg capsule 21 Capsules BDR Pharmaceuticals INR 3400
Pomcad 2mg capsule 21 Capsules Cadila Pharmaceuticals INR 3000
Pomavia 2mg capsule 21 Capsules Lupin Ltd INR 4000
Pomide 2mg capsule 21 Capsules Hetero Healthcare INR 3200
Pomalid 4mg capsule 21 Capsules Natco Pharma Ltd INR 7800

Uses of Pomalidomide

The drug pomalidomide was created to treat multiple myeloma and Kaposi's sarcoma, and it works against cancer cells that are resistant to lenalidomide.

Pomalidomide administration guidelines and available dosage options

Pomalidomide is made in tablet and capsule forms, with available doses of 1mg, 2mg, and 4mg. It should be taken once daily, with or without food, by swallowing the tablet or capsule with water. For individuals undergoing hemodialysis, pomalidomide is to be taken after the hemodialysis session on dialysis days.

Information about Pomalidomide

Pomalidomide uses

Pomalidomide is used for the treatment of multiple myeloma. It is used along with another medication known as 'dexamethasone,' which is an anti-inflammatory drug.

How pomalidomide works

Pomalidomide belongs to a category of drugs known as immunomodulatory agents. Its mechanism involves supporting the bone marrow in generating normal blood cells and eliminating abnormal cells within the bone marrow.

Common side effects of pomalidomide

Diarrhea, nausea, pneumonia, bronchitis (inflammation of the airways), Septic shock, Clostridium difficile colitis Influenza, Urinary tract infection, Basal cell carcinoma, Increased glucose level in the blood, Electrolyte imbalance, Depression, Peripheral sensory neuropathy, Dizziness, Tremors, Fainting, Cataract, Atrial fibrillation, Deep vein thrombosis (blood clots in the legs), Hypotension (low blood pressure), High blood pressure, Vomiting, Stomatitis (inflammation of the mouth), Acute kidney injury, chronic kidney injury, Respiratory tract infection.
1. Pomalidomide can be taken with or without food, but try to have it at the same time every day.
2. Do not skip any doses and complete the course as suggested by your doctor.
3. Use an effective method of birth control to avoid pregnancy while taking this medication.
4. Do not donate blood to anyone during the treatment or after 7 days of treatment.
5. Your doctor may get regular blood tests done to monitor your blood cell count and liver function.
6. It makes you feel dizzy. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how it affects you.

Warning, Precautions, and Side Effects Associated with Pomalidomide

Warning

Please immediately contact your physician if you encounter symptoms such as shortness of breath, unusual bleeding, or excessive fatigue. Throughout the course of pomalidomide treatment, your doctor may conduct regular monitoring of your blood cell counts, platelets, blood sugar, electrolytes, and kidney parameters to avert potential complications. Inform your doctor about any diagnoses of conditions like anemia, liver problems, kidney disease, or heart issues. Seek urgent medical attention if you observe red, itchy skin, rashes, skin peeling, yellowing of the skin and eyes, intense itching, rapid heartbeat, or fever.

Precautions

It is advisable to avoid pregnancy or breastfeeding while undergoing pomalidomide treatment. Inform your doctor before starting this treatment if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, suspect you might be pregnant, or are planning to become pregnant.

Side Effects

The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with pomalidomide are tiredness, weakness, constipation, nausea, diarrhea, shortness of breath, upper respiratory tract infection, back pain, fever, and high blood sugar levels. Serious side effects include abnormal kidney function tests, dizziness, confusion, tumor lysis syndrome, secondary cancers, liver problems, and low blood cell counts. If you experience any allergic reactions, such as swelling of the lips, eyes, face, or tongue, hives, or breathing trouble, report them to your doctor immediately.

Word of Advice

Pomalidomide may cause confusion and dizziness. Hence, it is recommended to avoid driving or engaging in activities that demand concentration while undergoing this treatment.

FAQ - Pomalidomide

1Is it safe to use pomalidomide during pregnancy?
Pomalidomide is generally considered unsafe during pregnancy. Your healthcare provider will administer pregnancy tests before and during pomalidomide treatment to exclude pregnancy and mitigate potential complications.
2Is it safe to undergo surgery while receiving pomalidomide injection treatment?
Pomalidomide is related to a heightened risk of uncommon bleeding and bruising. Consequently, it is recommended to avoid undergoing surgical procedures while undergoing this treatment.
3What are the most common side effects of pomalidomide?
Tiredness, weakness, constipation, nausea, diarrhea, shortness of breath, upper respiratory tract infection, back pain, fever, and high blood sugar levels. Serious side effects include abnormal kidney function tests, dizziness, confusion, tumor lysis syndrome, secondary cancers, liver problems, and low blood cell counts.
4When should you get in touch with your doctor?
Contact your healthcare provider and seek immediate medical attention if you encounter signs of nerve damage, such as numbness, tingling, pain, or burning sensations in your hands and feet. Additionally, be vigilant for symptoms of tumor lysis syndrome, including abnormal heart rhythm and seizures.
5What parameters will be monitored throughout treatment with pomalidomide?
During treatment with pomalidomide, your health care provider will monitor RBC, WBC, platelets, liver, blood glucose, and kidney parameters.
6What signs would indicate an allergic reaction to Pomalidomide?
Hypersensitivity reactions like severe itching, rashes, fever, peeling of skin, redness, rapid heartbeat, breathing trouble, dizziness, and swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue, or throat indicate that you are allergic to pomalidomide. Seek medical attention from your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the above symptoms.
7What activities or substances should be avoided while undergoing Pomalidomide treatment?
Donating blood or sperm while on treatment with pomalidomide is not recommended.

References

1. Martha Q. Lacy and Arleigh R. McCurdy, Pomalidomide, Blood (2013), 122 (14): 2305–2309, https://ashpublications.org/blood/article-pdf/122/14/2305/1370038/2305.pdf
2. Bristol Myers Squibb, US Food & Drug Administration, [Revised on Oct 2021] [Accessed on 1st Aug 2022], https://packageinserts.bms.com/pi/
pi_pomalyst.pdf
3. Anton Wellstein, Giuseppe Giaccone, Michael B. Atkins, and Edward A. Sausville, Pathway-Targeted Therapies: Monoclonal Antibodies, Protein Kinase Inhibitors, and Various Small Molecules, Goodman & Gilman’s Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 13th Edition, 2018, 1203-1236.