Lenalid 5mg Capsules

What is Lenalid 5 mg Capsules?

Lenalid 5Mg Capsule is used to treat anemia, which occurs in patients suffering from myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). The drug is used in combination with certain other medicines in the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM). Some patients suffering from mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) may also receive Lenalid 5Mg Capsule treatment, as it is an immunomodulator.

Lenalid 5Mg Capsule should not be taken if your body is hypersensitive to any substance present in it. Moreover, the drug can harm a fetus, thus it should not be used by women who are expecting or those trying to conceive a child. Breastfeeding mothers should consult their medical providers before starting Lenalid 5Mg Capsule.

The drug is mean to be taken orally, either with food or without. Swallow the entire tablet with the help of some water. It is best that you do not chew or break the tablet, as it will become less effective.

Like all medicines, Lenalid 5Mg Capsule too leads to some side effects such as pain in the abdomen, infection of the upper respiratory tract or the urinary tract, dizziness, constipation, diarrhea, cough, edema, fatigue, muscle cramps, nausea etc. If these side effects do get worse, get in touch with your health care provider and seek relevant treatment.

Lenalid 5 mg Capsules Uses?

Lenalidomide is used in adults in combination with other medicines to treat multiple myeloma (a type of cancer which affects plasma cells, a certain type of white blood cell) and alone to treat myelodysplastic syndromes (collection of many different blood and bone marrow diseases).  It is also used to treat mantle cell lymphoma (aggressive variety of cancer that occurs in lymph nodes).

How does Lenalid 5 mg Capsules work?

Lenalidomide belongs to the class of drugs called immunomodulators.

Multiple myeloma is a malignant tumour plasma cell in the bone marrow. Lenalidomide works by inhibiting multiplication of cancerous plasma cells and enhances the action of cells in the immune system. It also blocks the blood supply to the cancerous cells. 

How to take Lenalid 5 mg Capsules?

The dosage and the drug form depend on the age, weight and medical condition of an individual. Take Lenalidomide as prescribed by your doctor.

Swallow the tablet/capsule whole. Do not crush or chew the tablet/ capsule. Take the drug with or without food. However, taking the drug with food prevents stomach upset. Usually, this drug is taken in combination with a corticosteroid in treatment cycles.

If you miss a dose of Lenalidomide, please take it immediately once you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Lenalid 5 mg Capsules Contraindications:

Hypersensitivity to Lenalid Capsule is a contraindication. In addition, Lenalid Capsule should not be used if you have the following conditions:

• Allergic reactions
• Breastfeeding
• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
• Pregnant

Lenalid 5 mg Capsules Dosage:

How much you take and how often will depend on the strength of the medicine and your condition. Lenalid (Lenalidomide) is only available through a special program. Make sure you fully understand the instructions and the warnings associated with the medicine before you start taking it. Take strictly as directed by your physician, with a glass of water, with or without food.

Do not alter your dose or suddenly stop taking it without consulting your physician, even if you are feeling better.  If you forget to take a dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Never take a double dose to compensate for the one you missed.

What are the Side effects of Lenalid 5 mg Capsules?

In addition to its intended effect, Lenalid 5Mg Capsule may cause some unwanted effects too. In such cases, you must seek medical attention immediately. This is not an exhaustive list of side effects. Please inform your doctor if you experience any adverse reaction to the medication.

• Headache
• Weakness
• Nausea
• Rash
• Breathlessness
• Dizziness
• Sleepiness
• Edema
• Loss of appetite
• Decreased white blood cell count
• Decreased calcium level in blood
• Weight gain
• Muscle weakness
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Anxiety
• Blood clots
• Dry skin
• Weight loss
• Confusion
• Decreased white blood cell count (neutrophils)
• Neuropathy
• Constipation

Lenalid 5 mg Capsules Warnings?

Immediately proceed to your nearest emergency department if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms usually associated with such a reaction include difficulty breathing or swallowing, chest tightness, swelling, skin rashes, and hives.

Lenalid is not always suitable for all patients. Always consult your health care provider prior to using this medication if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to conceive, using any other medication (prescription or non-prescription), using any herbal products or supplements, or if you have any allergies or other health problems.

The correct dosage and prescription commonly depend on the patient and the condition being treated. Do not adjust your dosage without the approval of your health care provider. This product is only for use as prescribed and instructed.

References:

Imatinib: MedlinePlus Drug Information [Internet]. Medlineplus.gov. 2017 [cited 13 September 2017]. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a606018.html

DailyMed: Imatinib Mesylate tablet, film coated [Internet]. Dailymed.nlm.nih.gov. 2017 [cited 13 September 2017]. Available from: https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=0291eca5-7a1d-4a79-30be-252224d96509

Imatinib mesylate [Internet]. Pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. 2017 [cited 13 September 2017]. Available from: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/123596

FAQ:

1. Do I need to be monitored for any laboratory parameters while on Lenalidomide?

You must monitor your thyroid function, blood count, liver and kidney function while on Lenalidomide.

2. How should Lenalidomide be stored?

Store the drug at room temperature and avoid exposure to sunlight and moisture.

3. What are the other formulations available for Lenalidomide?

Lenalidomide medicine is available in the form of capsules and tablets.

4. Is it safe to use Lenalidomide with Warfarin?

If you have to use Warfarin with Lenalidomide medicine, you must regularly monitor your blood clotting time to prevent complications. Consult the doctor before using the drug.

5. Is it safe to alter the dose of Lenalidomide?

No. Do not alter the dose of Lenalidomide medicine. Consult your doctor if you have any problem with the dose.