Cancer Rx Linked to Second Cancers

Health Canada, the Canadian version of the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA), has issued an alert regarding the medication REVLIMID (lenalidomide) that's used to treat multiple myeloma.

The drug has been associated with second cancers in some patients.

Revlimid manufacturer, Celgene Inc., in consultation with Health Canada, has informed Canadian healthcare providers of important information related to safety issues with the drug, which is approved by Health Canada and the FDA for the treatment of both anemia and multiple myeloma, a blood cancer.

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you're taking Revlimid.

Celgene Inc. has worked with Health Canada to update the Revlimid Product Monograph with the following safety information:

• Second cancers such as skin cancers or other invasive solid tumors have been reported in a small number of patients with multiple myeloma.
• These cases have been reported in patients while taking Revlimid or after treatment with Revlimid is completed.
• Patients should talk to their healthcare professionals if they have any concerns about their own increased risk of having other cancers.

Celgene Inc. has sent a letter to Canadian health care professionals informing them of this safety information. 

For a complete list of side effects associated with Revlimid, please refer to corporate website. To ask questions about this specific medication, please call the FDA Drug Information Line at 1-301-796-3400.