Clinical trials conducted after Revlimid was approved showed that newly-diagnosed patients treated with Revlimid had an increased risk of developing second primary malignancies compared to similar patients who received a placebo. Specifically, these trials showed there was an increased risk of developing acute myelogenous leukemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and Hodgkin lymphoma.
This safety information has been added to the Warnings and Precautions section of the Revlimid drug label. The patient Medication Guide is also being updated to inform patients about this risk. Healthcare professionals should consider both the potential benefit of Revlimid and the risk of second primary malignancies when deciding to treat patients with this drug, and monitor patients for this risk.
[Posted 04/08/2011]
AUDIENCE: Hematology, Oncology
ISSUE: FDA is informing the public that we are aware of results from clinical trials conducted inside and outside the United States that found that patients treated with Revlimid (lenalidomide) may be at an increased risk of developing new types of cancer compared to patients who did not take the drug. FDA is currently reviewing all available information on this potential risk and will communicate any new recommendations once it has completed its review.
BACKGROUND: Revlimid is used to treat a type of blood disorder known as myelodysplastic syndrome. Revlimid is also used along with other drugs to treat people with the cancer known as multiple myeloma.
RECOMMENDATION: At this time, there is no recommendation to delay, modify or restrict the use of Revlimid for patients being treated according to the FDA-approved indications. FDA is currently reviewing all available information on this potential risks and will communicate any new recommendations once it has completed its review.
