Pomide Capsules

POMIDE Capsules is a brand name for a medication whose active ingredient is Pomalidomide. It is a powerful anti-cancer drug primarily used to treat a type of blood cancer called multiple myeloma.

 

Mechanism of Action

 

Pomalidomide is an immunomodulatory agent and a thalidomide derivative. Its mechanism of action is multifaceted and includes:

• Immunomodulation: It works by enhancing the immune system's ability to attack and destroy cancer cells. It activates T-cells and natural killer (NK) cells, which are crucial components of the immune system's defense against tumors.

• Direct Anti-Tumor Activity: Pomalidomide directly inhibits the growth and survival of multiple myeloma cells. It causes them to undergo apoptosis (programmed cell death).

• Anti-Angiogenesis: It blocks the formation of new blood vessels that cancer cells need to grow and spread. By cutting off the tumor's blood supply, it "starves" the cancer.

• Affecting the Tumor Microenvironment: It disrupts the communication and adhesion between cancer cells and the bone marrow, which helps to weaken the cancer and make it more susceptible to other treatments.

 

Uses

 

POMIDE Capsules, in combination with a steroid medication like dexamethasone, is used to treat:

• Multiple Myeloma: It is specifically indicated for adult patients with multiple myeloma who have received at least two prior therapies and whose disease has progressed despite those treatments.

• AIDS-Related Kaposi Sarcoma: In some cases, it may also be used to treat Kaposi sarcoma, a type of cancer that can occur in people with HIV.

 

Dosage and Administration

 

• POMIDE is taken orally as a capsule, typically once a day.

• The capsules should be swallowed whole and not opened, chewed, or crushed.

• The dosage and treatment schedule are determined by a doctor and are often part of a 28-day cycle, with the medication taken for 21 days followed by a 7-day break.

 

Side Effects

 

Pomalidomide can cause serious side effects, and patients are closely monitored during treatment.

Common Side Effects:

• Hematologic (Blood-related): The most common side effect is a decrease in blood cell counts, including neutropenia (low white blood cells, increasing infection risk), anemia (low red blood cells), and thrombocytopenia (low platelets, increasing the risk of bleeding). Regular blood tests are essential.

• Fatigue and Weakness

• Gastrointestinal: Nausea, constipation, or diarrhea

• Neurological: Dizziness, headache, or peripheral neuropathy (numbness, tingling, or pain in hands and feet)

Serious Side Effects:

• Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: Pomalidomide can cause severe, life-threatening birth defects. It is absolutely contraindicated in pregnancy. Men and women of reproductive potential must use two forms of effective contraception during and for a period after treatment. This medication is available only through a restricted distribution program to ensure safe use.

• Venous and Arterial Thromboembolism: The drug increases the risk of serious blood clots, which can lead to conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), heart attack, or stroke.

• Liver Problems: It can cause liver toxicity, and liver function should be monitored.

 

Important Considerations

 

• Prescription-only: Pomalidomide is a high-risk medication that must be prescribed and managed by a qualified oncologist.

• Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS): Due to the high risk of birth defects, a special program called the REMS program is in place. Patients and prescribers must comply with strict rules to prevent pregnancy.

• Drug Interactions: Pomalidomide can interact with other medications, so it is crucial to inform the healthcare provider of all other drugs being taken.