[The revival of thalidomide: an old drug with new indications].
Thalidomide has several mechanisms of action: several immuno-modulatory properties, an anti-angiogenic action and a hypnosedative effect. Thalidomide has been used in several cutaneous inflammatory disorders (such as erythema nodosum leprosum in lepromatous leprosy, cutaneous lupus erythematosus, severe aphtosis), cancers (relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma) and inflammatory conditions. Several side effects are associated with thalidomide; some are major: teratogenicity, peripheral neuropathy and deep venous thrombosis; some are minor, such as somnolence or abdominal pain and endocrinologic disturbances. Use of thalidomide is strictly controlled with close adherence to a birth control program and close monitoring for early development of peripheral neuropathy.
Laffitte
Emmanuel
E
Service de dermatologie et vénérologie, centre hospitalier universitaire vaudois, CH-IO11 Lausanne, Suisse. emmanuel.laffitte@chuv.ch
D020533:Angiogenesis Inhibitors / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003875:Drug Eruptions; D006801:Humans; D007917:Leprostatic Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D010523:Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy; D013723:Teratogens / Q000494:pharmacology; D013792:Thalidomide / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D013927:Thrombosis / Q000139:chemically induced
D020533:Angiogenesis Inhibitors; D007917:Leprostatic Agents; D013723:Teratogens; D013792:Thalidomide