POMALYST, 4MG, CAPSULE

Common uses

This medication is typically used as part of chemotherapy.

How to use this medication

To fully benefit from the effect of this medication, and to limit any adverse reactions, make sure that the health care facility overseeing your treatment has provided you with all the information needed to properly administer this drug.

This medication is typically used only once a day. However, your pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. Generally, a treatment with this medication lasts several days. Take it for the entire time prescribed in order to achieve the medication's full benefit.

Important: Follow the instructions on the label. Do not use more of this product, or more often, than prescribed. The capsule of this medication should not be opened, crushed or chewed.

If you remember missing a dose within 12 hours of the time it is usually taken, take it as soon as you remember, then take the next dose at the regularly scheduled time. If the dose is missed by more than 12 hours, skip the missed dose. Do not double the next dose to catch up. This medication may be taken with or without food.

Consuming alcohol may intensify the toxicity of this product. Avoid or limit alcohol consumption during treatment.

Possible side effects

In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:

• it may cause anemia (low red blood cells);
• it may cause difficulty breathing;
• it may cause spots or redness of the skin;
• it may cause dizziness - use caution when getting up from a lying or sitting position and use caution if driving;
• it may cause unusual tiredness;
• it may cause nausea or, rarely, vomiting.

Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your health care professional. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.

Storage information

As with most medications, this product should be stored at room temperature. Store it in a secure location where it will not be exposed to excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight. Make sure that any leftover portion is disposed of safely. To remain effective, this product must be kept in its original packaging. Do not transfer it to another container.

Additional information

Taking this medication during pregnancy may be harmful for the baby. Women of childbearing potential should use two effective contraceptive methods beginning at least one month before treatment, during the treatment and for at least one month after the end of it. Ask your health care professional for details.

It is recommended that men taking this drug should use a condom during treatment, and up to one month after treatment, when they have sexual intercourse with a pregnant or childbearing age woman.

Pregnant women should not use this product. If you're planning a pregnancy or become pregnant, contact your family doctor.

Although the drugs you are taking are intended to help you, they can be harmful to those around you. Make sure that a professional who oversees your treatment has given you all the necessary precautions.

Blood tests must be done regularly while using this medication. A blood test will indicate whether your treatment is having the desired effect. It will also provide the necessary information for adjusting the dosage to the lowest effective dose, thus decreasing the risk of side effects. Be sure to keep all your appointments.

A treatment with this medication requires regular monitoring by a doctor. Be sure to see your doctor for all regularly scheduled appointments.

Blood donation is usually refused during this treatment.

General information

When meeting with any health professional, it is important for you to share the following information:

• Your medical history and allergies (medication, food, or other);
• If you're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or if you're breastfeeding;
• If you use tobacco or cannabis or its derivatives, or if you use recreational drugs;
• The names of all the medications you take, whether you take them regularly or once in a while, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and natural health products.

It is also strongly recommended that you keep an up-to-date list of all the medications you take and carry it with you at all times. This could be useful if you have to see a health professional or need emergency care.

Keep all your medications out of the reach of children and pets and return any unused or expired medications to the pharmacy for proper disposal.