Revlimid, the brand name of lenalidomide, is a drug used in treating multiple myeloma and myelodysplastic syndromes. Revlimid is taken orally and is typically used after at least one other treatment has been tried but before chemotherapy. Currently, it is the most prescribed medication for patients with multiple myeloma.
The content on this page is provided for informational purposes only. If you have any questions or concerns about your treatment, you should talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare professional. This is particularly important if you are taking multiple medications or have any existing medical conditions.
How does Revlimid work?
Revlimid works through several mechanisms, coming together to build a strong defense. Revlimid works by inducing immune system responses, stimulating T cells to attack the disease. It also inhibits the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines(a soluble protein that controls growth and activity of other immune cells). These proteins block the development of abnormal cells and blood vessels for tumor growth.
How much does Revlimid cost?
The price of Revlimid will vary greatly depending on location and insurance coverage. However, patients who are paying out-of-pocket can expect to pay around $832.50 per pill. Revlimid is often taken in cycles, daily for three weeks, followed by a week off. This means that the cash price for a month’s supply of Revlimid may be around $17,482.
Who makes Revlimid?
Revlimid was created and is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Celgene.
How long does Revlimid work?
There is no one answer to how long Revlimid may work for a specific patient. However, studies have shown that patients taking Revlimid lived 39 months without any disease progression, a 19 month increase over patients not taking Revlimid. In more practical terms, patients taking Revlimid saw a 54% reduction in disease progression or death.
What are the side effects of Revlimid?
Revlimid may potentially cause side effects ranging from mild to severe. The list below includes some of the most common side effects but is not a complete list. Mild side effects may go away after a few days or weeks of consistent medication-taking, but if they persist or worsen you should speak with your doctor.
Common side effects:
- Cough
- Rash
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Cold-like symptoms
Serious side effects:
- Liver failures (yellowing skin or eyes, swelling legs or belly)
- Tumor lysis syndrome (fatigue, irregular heartbeat, fainting, muscle weakness)
- Severe skin reactions (Mouth sores, a red or purple rash, hives, blistering skin)
- Thrombocytopenia (abnormally low level of platelets in the blood)
There is currently no generic form of Revlimid available in the US, although there is a generic version produced by Alvogen in the EU. It’s worth noting that fraudulent and illegal generic versions of Revlimid are sometimes sold online. These are potentially counterfeit and could be unsafe.
Is Revlimid chemotherapy?
Revlimid is not a form of chemotherapy. Oftentimes Revlimid is used before chemotherapy but after other first-line treatments.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Revlimid?
There isn’t a known interaction between Revlimid and alcohol but it may interact with other drugs you’re taking for Myeloma. If you intend to drink alcohol while taking Revlimid you should first speak with your doctor.
What is the right Revlimid dosage for me?
The proper dosage of Revlimid will vary between patients and is based on several factors.
The standard starting dose for Revlimid is 25mg per day, taken orally. This dose is repeated for 21 days, with a 7-day break before beginning the next cycle. Dosage adjustments usually involve increasing or decreasing the daily dose, but it is still taken once daily and on the same cycle.
Where can I find the Revlimid package insert?
The FDA maintains online copies of the package inserts of every drug currently approved. You can click here to be taken directly to the Revlimid package insert PDF.
The content on this page is provided for informational purposes only. If you have any questions or concerns about your treatment, you should talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare professional. This is particularly important if you are taking multiple medications or have any existing medical conditions.
