Oncology support
Our pharmacy is registered with RevAid, the program required in Canada to dispense lenalidomide.
The pharmacist's role during cancer treatment
Many cancer treatments are now taken at home, as tablets or capsules, which means follow-up no longer happens only at the hospital. Your pharmacist checks for interactions with your other medications and natural health products, explains what to watch for between appointments, helps you manage common side effects, and makes sure nothing is missing when it is time to start a new cycle.
The RevAid program, explained plainly
In Canada, lenalidomide — along with pomalidomide and thalidomide — is distributed only through a controlled distribution program called RevAid. The program exists because these medications can cause serious birth defects if taken during pregnancy. Three registrations are required: the prescribing physician, you, and the pharmacy that dispenses. Many neighbourhood pharmacies are not registered. Ours is.
How it works, step by step
Your physician enrols you in the program and completes the required paperwork.
You receive your patient number and complete a short mandatory questionnaire before each dispensing.
The prescription goes to a registered pharmacy — ours, if you would like.
We confirm the authorizations, order the quantity planned for the cycle, and let you know as soon as it is ready.
At every refill the questionnaire and authorizations are done again: that is a program requirement, not pharmacy red tape.
Living with a treatment taken at home
Treatment is usually taken in cycles: a period of daily doses followed by a break. Follow the schedule your care team gave you.
Keep capsules in their original packaging until you take them. Do not open, crush or chew them.
Family members and caregivers should not handle the contents of a capsule. If it happens, wash the area with soap and water.
Return unused or expired capsules to the pharmacy rather than discarding them at home.
Never share this medication, and do not donate blood during treatment or for the period your team specifies.
Your care team schedules regular blood work to monitor your blood counts. Keep those appointments even when you feel well.
Report promptly to your physician or pharmacist: fever, unusual shortness of breath, pain or swelling in a leg, bleeding, or a significant skin rash.
Pregnancy: an essential warning
Lenalidomide can cause serious birth defects and is contraindicated during pregnancy. The RevAid program requires strict contraception conditions and pregnancy testing for anyone able to become pregnant, along with specific precautions for male patients. These requirements come from Health Canada and the manufacturer; your care team will go through them with you in detail.
Coverage, costs and support
Lenalidomide is listed as an exceptional medication under the public plan: RAMQ must grant a payment authorization before it is reimbursed. We prepare that file with your clinic and follow up on it. RevAid also runs an information line for patients (1-888-738-2431), and manufacturers offer support programs that can help with the portion you are left to pay. We point you to the one that applies to your situation.
Frequently asked questions
Where to learn more
For detailed medical information about multiple myeloma and its treatments, see Myeloma Canada, the Canadian Cancer Society, or the RevAid program website. Your oncology team remains your first point of reference.
Talk to a pharmacist
Describe your situation in a few words — a pharmacist will call you back confidentially. Please do not include detailed medical information in this form.
Content reviewed by a pharmacist at the pharmacy · Updated July 2026
This page is for information only and does not replace advice from your physician or pharmacist. It is not intended to promote any particular medication. Always speak to your care team before changing a treatment.