Revlimid is a prescription drug used to treat certain types of blood cancers, including multiple myeloma. There are no known foods that interact with Revlimid, but there may be certain foods to avoid for multiple myeloma.
Revlimid is a brand-name oral capsule that’s prescribed for certain types of blood cancers, including multiple myeloma.
Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that affects your bone marrow and changes your blood’s plasma cells. Signs and symptoms of multiple myeloma may include bone problems, kidney problems, and low blood counts.
Read on to learn more about which foods may be beneficial or best to avoid if you have multiple myeloma and whether any foods interact with Revlimid.
It is important to maintain good nutrition during treatment for multiple myeloma. The food you eat can help you manage treatment side effects. For example, certain side effects of Revlimid, such as fatigue, diarrhea, and constipation, may improve with changes in diet.
Multiple myeloma may lead to anemia (low red blood cell levels). Anemia can also be caused by low iron levels. Your doctor may recommend eating more foods that contain iron to help your body make more healthy red blood cells. Food sources of iron include lean red meat, kale, and broccoli.
Some drugs for multiple myeloma, including Revlimid, can cause constipation. Increasing your fiber intake and drinking plenty of water can help relieve constipation. Examples of foods that are high in fiber include whole grains, dried fruit, and apples.
Foods to avoid
Multiple myeloma can cause damage to your kidneys. To help protect your kidneys, you may need to reduce the amount of salt, alcohol, protein, and potassium you eat. Foods that are low in potassium include cucumbers, certain berries, and pears.
Also, treatments for multiple myeloma, including Revlimid, can increase your risk of developing an infection. You can reduce your risk of infection by avoiding raw foods. Bacteria in undercooked meat, sushi, and raw eggs can lead to bacterial infections.
Tips for maintaining good nutrition during treatment
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- eating several small snacks throughout the day rather than three big meals
- eating high calorie and high protein foods, such as milk products and eggs
- getting regular physical activity, which can improve your muscle mass, stamina, and bone strength and help increase your appetite
Here are some frequently asked questions about food and Revlimid.
Can I drink coffee while taking Revlimid?
There is no known interaction between coffee and Revlimid. But it may be best to limit or avoid coffee while taking Revlimid. This is because drinking coffee while taking the drug may worsen some of the drug’s side effects, including diarrhea, fatigue, and headache
Also, according to a 2022 study, there is limited evidence showing that coffee may increase the risk of multiple myeloma, which Revlimid is used to treat.
Talk with your doctor if you have questions about how much, if any, coffee is safe for you to drink during treatment with Revlimid.
Is it safe to eat grapefruit with Revlimid?
Yes. There is no known interaction between grapefruit and Revlimid.
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) is an enzyme that plays a role in metabolizing (breaking down) many drugs. Grapefruit can block CYP3A4 activity. This means it can increase the amounts of drugs that are metabolized by CYP3A4 in your body, leading to an increased risk of side effects.
Revlimid is not metabolized by CYP3A4. If you have questions about potential interactions with Revlimid, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that affects your bone marrow and changes your blood’s plasma cells. Revlimid is a prescription drug that can be used to treat multiple myeloma.
Certain foods may be helpful during treatment with Revlimid for multiple myeloma. Your diet can help you manage side effects of the medication and the condition.
If you have questions about the best diet for you during your treatment, talk with your doctor.
Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.