Lenalidomide Side Effects: A Patient’s Handbook

Lenalidomide fights blood cancers by boosting your immune system. 

It’s effective, but it can bring worrying side effects. It’s okay to feel concerned, but as long as you’re aware of these effects, you can manage them more easily and keep up with your treatment. 

Keep in mind, these effects are present in both Revlimid and Generic Lenalidomide. We’ll tell you all you need to know. Let’s get started.

Common Lenalidomide Side Effects

More often than not, you’re just likely to deal with some minor irritations. Here’s a rundown of some more common ones.

Tiredness And Fatigue

Many people feel tired or fatigued while taking lenalidomide. The tiredness is usually due to the drug messing with your metabolism and energy levels, making you feel worn out.

Nausea, Diarrhea, and Constipation

Your stomach might act up. You could feel sick or throw up. Some days you might have diarrhea. Other days, constipation. The drug can irritate your digestive system, causing these uncomfortable symptoms. It’s part of how the drug affects your body, and while it’s annoying, it’s something that can often be managed.

Skin Issues: Rash and Itching

You might get an itchy rash. Your skin could become red and irritated. This is your body reacting to the drug. Most of the time, these issues are mild, but if they get worse, it might be worth talking to your doctor.

Serious Side Effects of Lenalidomide

Now, let’s talk about some of the more dangerous side effects,

Blood Clots

Lenalidomide can increase the risk of blood clots. It affects proteins in your blood, making it more likely to clot. This can lead to serious issues if clots travel to your lungs, heart, or brain. Blood thinners may be needed to reduce this risk.

Heart Attack and Stroke Risks

The drug can also raise your risk of heart attacks and strokes. It can impact blood pressure, cholesterol, and clotting, especially if you have existing heart issues.

Liver and Kidney Problems

Lenalidomide can strain your liver and kidneys. It’s processed by these organs and can sometimes cause liver inflammation or reduced kidney function, so regular check-ups are important.

Risks Of Secondary Cancers

There’s a small risk that lenalidomide could lead to other types of cancer, like acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This risk increases with long-term use, so you need to monitor regularly.

Pregnancy Issues

Lenalidomide is very dangerous during pregnancy and can cause severe birth defects. Strict birth control is required for women taking this drug, and men should take precautions too.

Rare but Serious Side Effects of Lenalidomide

Things can get even worse, but these are even rarer, only happening in less than 10% of people.

Allergic Reactions: Anaphylaxis and Angioedema

Severe allergic reactions, like anaphylaxis or angioedema, can happen but are rare. Symptoms include trouble breathing, swelling, and a sudden drop in blood pressure. If this happens, get emergency help immediately.

Tumor Lysis Syndrome

Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) is rare but serious. Lenalidomide can break down cancer cells too fast, overloading your body with waste. This can cause kidney and heart problems.

Severe Skin Reactions: Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis

Lenalidomide can cause rare but dangerous skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) or Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN). These cause severe blistering and peeling of the skin. If you see these signs, seek medical help immediately.

Managing Lenalidomide Side Effects

Dealing with side effects can make your treatment easier and more manageable. Here are some things to help you handle common issues while on lenalidomide.

Prevent Infections

Lenalidomide can weaken your immune system, making infections more likely. To stay healthy, wash your hands often, avoid crowds, and steer clear of sick people. Keep your living space clean, and ask your doctor if you should get any specific vaccines or take preventive antibiotics.

Adjust Your Diet

If lenalidomide upsets your stomach, try eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of big ones. Stick to bland foods like toast, applesauce, and bananas. Drink plenty of fluids, and avoid spicy or greasy foods that can worsen nausea or constipation.

Make Lifestyle Changes

To help with fatigue, include light exercise in your routine, like walking or yoga. Aim for a regular sleep schedule and manage stress with relaxation techniques. Cutting back on alcohol and caffeine can also improve your energy levels and overall mood.

Medications That Don’t Interfere With Lenalidomide

For nausea, ask your doctor if you can use anti-nausea medications. If constipation is an issue, a stool softener or fiber supplement might help. For skin problems, topical creams or antihistamines can relieve rashes and itching. Always check with your doctor before using any new medications.

Precautions for Lenalidomide Users

Taking lenalidomide safely means keeping a few precautions in mind. Here’s what you need to know to stay on track.

Don’t Donate Blood

Avoid donating blood while on lenalidomide. The drug could be harmful if transferred through a blood donation. Keeping your blood to yourself ensures the safety of others.

Avoid Certain Medications 

Some meds don’t mix well with lenalidomide. Be cautious with blood thinners and certain antifungals. Always let your doctor know about any other drugs or supplements you’re taking to avoid problems.

Do Regular Blood Tests

While on lenalidomide, you’ll need regular blood tests to monitor your blood cell counts and organ function. These tests help your doctor track how well you’re responding to the treatment and catch any potential issues early.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Lenalidomide

Getting the right information can make your treatment easier. Here are some questions to ask your doctor to stay informed and manage your care.

What Are My Risk Factors?

Ask your doctor about any personal health issues that could increase your risk with lenalidomide. For example, how might your other conditions or medications affect your treatment? 

What Side Effects Should I Report?

Find out which side effects are urgent. For instance, ask about symptoms like severe pain, unusual bleeding, or shortness of breath. There might be some that are specific to your own physical condition.

When to Adjust Lenalidomide Dosage?

Ask your doctor when your dose might need to change. Find out what signs or test results would prompt a dosage adjustment. That way, you get an idea of how your treatment might evolve based on your response and any side effects.

Conclusion

As long as you keep an eye on your health, you’ll be fine. 

Most of these lenalidomide side effects go away on their own, or have supplementary medicines you can take to make things easier for yourself. 

If you’re worried, just try your best to keep up constant communications with your doctor.