MedicinePOM

Thalidomide

A capsule used with dexamethasone for multiple myeloma and for a leprosy skin complication.

Clinical information

Common uses

newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (with dexamethasone)
erythema nodosum leprosum (leprosy skin reaction)

Common side effects

tiredness
constipation
drowsiness
rash
headache

Cautions

boxed warning: one dose in pregnancy causes severe birth defects
only supplied via a restricted programme with strict contraception
raised risk of blood clots (DVT, pulmonary embolism)
can cause nerve damage — watched for numbness or tingling

Interactions

sedating medicines (add to drowsiness)
medicines that slow the heart
medicines that cause nerve damage
hormonal contraceptives and oestrogen therapy (possible clot risk)
erythropoietin-type medicines (clot risk)

Pregnancy: never — a single dose causes severe birth defects

Reference information, not medical advice — always follow your doctor or pharmacist. Source: DailyMed, dailymed.nlm.nih.gov, Thalomid (thalidomide) capsule label, setid 2eda833b-1357-4ed4-a093-194524fcb061 (accessed 2026-08-16)

Approved brands & formulations2

Brand name	Dosage form	Strength	Importer	Category
Thalidomide	Capsule	100mg	—	POM
Thalidomide	Capsule	50mg	—	POM