Generic Name: pomalidomide
Drug Class: Immunotherapy Medications
Company: Bristol Myers Squibb/Celgene
Approval Status: Approved
Generic Version Available: No
Drug Indication
Pomalyst is an immunomodulator approved for multiple myeloma and Kaposi sarcoma.
General Info
Pomalyst is an immunomodulatory drug related to thalidomide. It boosts immune function by stimulating T-cell and natural killer cell activity. In addition, it inhibits the growth of cancer cells and blocks development of blood vessels that feed tumors.
Clinical trials showed that Pomalyst plus dexamethasone slows progression of multiple myeloma. Study 12-C-0047 showed that 67% of HIV-positive people with AIDS-related Kaposi sarcoma and 80% of HIV-negative people experienced complete or partial remission of lesions. Pomalyst was first approved in 2013.
Dosage
Dosing Info: Pomalyst is a capsule taken once daily for three weeks, followed by one week off, until disease progression occurs.
Side Effects
Common adverse reactions include fatigue, weakness, constipation, nausea, diarrhea, rash, shortness of breath, back pain and fever. It can cause depletion of white blood cells (neutropenia), red blood cells (anemia) and platelets (thrombocytopenia) low white blood cell counts (neutropenia), which can lead to infections, fatigue and easy bleeding. Potential severe side effects include deep vein thrombosis (blood clots), pulmonary embolism, heart attack, stroke, liver problems, severe skin reactions and tumor lysis syndrome (metabolic abnormalities that can occur when many cancer cells are killed at once). Like thalidomide, Pomalyst can cause severe birth defects if used during pregnancy, and people of childbearing potential must use reliable contraception.
For More Info: https://www.pomalyst.com
Co-Pay Program Info: https://www.celgenepatientsupport.com/
Patient Assistance Program Info: https://www.celgenepatientsupport.com/
Last Reviewed: May 19, 2020
