Chemotherapy Education

Thalidomide

• Given orally

• An anti-cancer drug that stops cells from dividing.

• Some of the side effects may include:

1. Sedation or drowsiness;
   • may cause fatigue, weakness, incoordination, confusion and mood change.
2. Skin rash
3. Myelosuppression/Bone Marrow Suppression
   • may cause your white blood cells to decrease making you more susceptible to infections.
4. Low blood pressure or dizziness
5. Constipation
6. Swelling of the legs or ankles.
7. Numbness or tingling in hands, feet; may also feel pain in the hands and feet.
8. Thalidomide causes birth defects. Should not be used by a woman who is pregnant or who may become pregnant.

Thalidomide and Decadron (dexamethasone)

• Thalidomide is often taken with Decadron to make it more effective.

• The Decadron dosing for ODD numbered CYCLES is:

• 40 mg per day on days 1-4, 9-12, and 17-20

• The Decadron dosing for EVEN numbered Cycles is:

• 40 mg per day on days 1-4

• Cycles are every 28 days.

• Decadron is best taken in the morning and with food as it can cause insomnia and heartburn.

Thalidomide and Coumadin (warfarin)

• Patients on Thalidomide have an increased risk for developing blood clots. Your doctor may recommend a blood thinner like Coumadin to help prevent blood clots.
• While on Coumadin, you may need periodic blood tests to check how thin or thick your blood is. This test is called a Protime or PT/INR.

Front Range Cancer Specialists
"Fighting Cancer with Knowledge and Compassion"

Our Chemotherapy Clinic is located:
2315 East Harmony Road
Suite 110
Fort Collins, CO 80528

Phone 970 212 7600