Lenalidomide, which is sold under the name of revlimid, is used for the treatment of MM (Multiple Myeloma) and myelodysplastic syndromes (is a group of cancers in which immature blood cells in the bone marrow do not mature, so do not become healthy blood cells).
Before knowing history, one needs to know that thalidomide, a pioneer to lenalidomide, was not developed for the treatment of multiple myeloma. It is said that the history of lenalidomide is one of the most interesting stories in medical science. In the late 50s when thalidomide developed it was known as sleeping pills because people feel sleepy after taking that. And when it was developed no one knew about the exact mechanism of medication.
In the early 60s when pregnant women inhaled thalidomide for morning sickness it was observed that they gave birth to babies with malformations. After that, it was felt that the drug is for some other mechanism too.
In 1971, the concept discovered called anti-angiogenesis which involves blocking the formation of new blood vessels important for a tumor to survive. Then only this showed progress by preventing the growth of new blood vessels. Then when thalidomide and then lenalidomide came into the spotlight.
Approval history
On December 27, 2005, lenalidomide was first approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of multiple myeloma who received at least one prior therapy.
Dosage and usage
After knowing about the history of lenalidomide, it is important to know about the drugs how and when to consume them. First of all, it is recommended to consult the doctor, and is not advisable to consume any drug dose without the doctor's prescription.
The lenalidomide is in a form of a capsule and strength of 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, 15mg, 20mg, and 25mg. Lenalidomide is suggested to be taken daily once orally at the same time. Lenalidomide should be swallowed fully with water and not break, crush or split.
Usage of medication in Multiple Myeloma (MM) as starting dose is 25mg once daily from Day 1 to day 21 repeated 28 days cycle.
Later we all see this part called pricing. Lenalidomide price in India is different and depends on different trade such as
- Lenalid cost approximately Rs. 4386 – Rs. 9297
- Lenmid cost approximately Rs795 –Rs 2797
- Lenid cost approximately Rs 1500 – Rs 2900
