Revlimid (lenalidomide)
Bristol Myers Squibb (formerly Celgene) · Immunomodulatory Agent (IMiD) / Cereblon E3 Ligase Modulator
What is Revlimid? Revlimid (lenalidomide) is an immunomodulatory agent (IMiD) approved for multiple myeloma, MDS with del(5q), follicular lymphoma, and marginal zone lymphoma. It is a cornerstone of multiple myeloma therapy across all treatment lines.
About Revlimid
| Brand Name | Revlimid |
| Generic / INN | lenalidomide |
| Drug Class | Immunomodulatory Agent (IMiD) / Cereblon E3 Ligase Modulator |
| Manufacturer | Bristol Myers Squibb (formerly Celgene) |
| Administration | Oral capsule |
| FDA Approval | 2006 |
FDA-Approved Uses for Revlimid
Indications are based on FDA approval. Your healthcare provider determines appropriate use based on your specific diagnosis, stage, biomarker status, and overall clinical picture.
- Multiple myeloma — with dexamethasone (relapsed/refractory)
- Multiple myeloma — maintenance after autologous stem cell transplantation
- Multiple myeloma — newly diagnosed (combination regimens, transplant-ineligible)
- MDS — transfusion-dependent del(5q) myelodysplastic syndrome
- Follicular lymphoma — after at least 2 prior therapies (with rituximab)
- Marginal zone lymphoma — after at least 2 prior therapies including rituximab
How Does Revlimid Work?
Lenalidomide binds cereblon, a component of the CRL4 E3 ubiquitin ligase. This modifies the substrate specificity to target Ikaros (IKZF1) and Aiolos (IKZF3) for degradation — transcription factors critical for myeloma cell survival. It also has immunostimulatory effects (enhances NK cell and T cell activity) and anti-angiogenic properties.
Dosage & Administration
Multiple myeloma (standard): 25 mg orally once daily on days 1–21 of 28-day cycles with dexamethasone. MDS del(5q): 10 mg daily on days 1–21. Maintenance post-ASCT: 10 mg daily. Must be enrolled in REMS program.
Dosing is individualized by the prescribing clinician. Never adjust your dose without consulting your healthcare provider. This information is educational only and does not replace the official prescribing information.
Warnings, Precautions & Side Effects
General Warning
BOXED WARNINGS: Embryo-fetal toxicity — absolute contraindication in pregnancy (teratogenic/thalidomide derivative). Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) — thromboembolic events increased; prophylactic anticoagulation recommended. Hematologic toxicity. Lenalidomide is available ONLY through the REVLIMID REMS program.
- Embryo-fetal toxicity — absolute contraindication — REMS required
- DVT/PE — thromboembolic events
- Secondary malignancies (AML/MDS, solid tumors)
- Severe hematologic toxicity
Common Side Effects
- Neutropenia
- Thrombocytopenia
- Diarrhea
- Rash
- Fatigue
- Constipation
- Fever
- Upper respiratory infection
This is not a complete list. Always report new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.
Storage & Handling
Store at room temperature 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Keep in original packaging.
BiologicHealthPlus provides temperature-monitored cold-chain specialty delivery for medications requiring refrigeration. Never use a medication if its storage conditions have been compromised.
Insurance Coverage, Prior Authorization & Patient Assistance
🛡️ Commercial Insurance
Revlimid is covered by most major commercial insurance plans when medically necessary and prior authorized. Coverage tier and cost-sharing vary by plan.
✅ Prior Authorization
Prior authorization is required by virtually all insurance plans for Revlimid. BiologicHealthPlus handles the complete prior authorization process at no cost to patients or providers.
🏥 Medicare Coverage
Medicare Part D covers this oral specialty medication. Medicaid coverage varies by state.
🆓 Patient Assistance
Manufacturer patient assistance programs may be available for eligible uninsured or underinsured patients. Contact BiologicHealthPlus for a confidential eligibility review.
Prior Authorization Patient Assistance Insurance & Savings Medication Costs
Frequently Asked Questions — Revlimid
Revlimid is an IMiD (immunomodulatory drug) and cornerstone of multiple myeloma treatment. It degrades key myeloma survival proteins through the cereblon pathway and also stimulates anti-tumor immune responses.
Lenalidomide is structurally related to thalidomide — which caused severe birth defects. The REVLIMID REMS program ensures pregnancy prevention through mandatory testing and counseling for all patients of reproductive potential.
Yes — generic lenalidomide capsules became available after patent expiration and are dispensed through a generic REMS program.
DVT and PE are significantly increased with lenalidomide, especially in combination with dexamethasone or chemotherapy. Prophylactic anticoagulation (aspirin, LMWH, or warfarin depending on risk) is recommended.
Related Medications & Conditions
Related Medications
Pomalidomide (Pomalyst) · Thalidomide (Thalomid) · Darzalex (daratumumab) · Velcade (bortezomib) · Kyprolis (carfilzomib)
Related Conditions
Multiple myeloma · MDS del(5q) · Follicular lymphoma · Marginal zone lymphoma