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Thalidomide: Research advances in cancer and other conditions

Side effects other than birth defects

People taking thalidomide might also experience other side effects, such as:

  • Damage to nerves in the fingers and toes (peripheral neuropathy) that causes pain, tingling and numbness
  • Blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or near the lungs (pulmonary embolism)
  • Drowsiness
  • Rash
  • Dizziness

Take your medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Check with your doctor before taking any other medications, including prescription medications and medications that are available without a prescription.