Thalidomide: when everything old is new again.
Thalidomide is an anti-angiogenesis agent that currently is being evaluated in the treatment of various types of cancer. The teratogenic effects of thalidomide are well-known, and patients who are prescribed this drug often are fearful of its effects. Because of the potential for teratogenicity, patients must adhere to the System for Thalidomide Education and Prescribing Safety (STEPS). Side effects of thalidomide include sedation, dose-related peripheral neuropathy, constipation, thrombiotic events, and skin rash. Nurses have a major role in educating patients about this drug, its effects, and necessary precautions.
Nirenberg
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D020533:Angiogenesis Inhibitors / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D009389:Neovascularization, Pathologic / Q000188:drug therapy*; D009723:Nurse-Patient Relations; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D013792:Thalidomide / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D020533:Angiogenesis Inhibitors; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D013792:Thalidomide