| Common Brands | Farydak |
|---|---|
|
Drug Class |
Histone Deacetylase (HDAC) Inhibitor |
|
Controlled Substance Classification |
Not a controlled medication |
|
Generic Status |
Lower-cost generic available |
|
Availability |
Prescription only, via specialty pharmacy |
Farydak (Panobinostat) is a medicine used to treat a type of blood cancer called multiple myeloma. It is usually given to patients who have already received other treatments that didn’t work well enough. Farydak helps slow down or stop the growth of cancer cells.
Farydak is not used alone. It is given along with other cancer medicines like bortezomib (Velcade) and dexamethasone to make it work better.
Taking Farydak the correct way is important for your safety and the best results.
Farydak can cause serious side effects if not taken correctly, so always follow instructions closely.
Farydak belongs to a group of drugs called HDAC inhibitors (histone deacetylase inhibitors). These drugs affect how certain genes inside cells are turned on or off. In cancer cells, Farydak helps stop them from growing and makes them die.
Because of how it works, Farydak is usually only given when other treatments are no longer working well.
Like all cancer drugs, Farydak may cause side effects. Some are mild, but others can be serious.
Common Side Effects:
Serious Side Effects (Tell your doctor right away):
Always report unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider.
Farydak is a strong medicine and should be used carefully. Your doctor will do regular tests to keep you safe.
Tell your doctor your full medical history before starting this medicine.
Always tell your doctor about all other medications or supplements you’re taking.
Farydak is taken in treatment cycles (3 weeks each), and the dose may change based on how your body responds.
Stick exactly to the schedule your doctor gives you. Do not make changes on your own.
Farydak is a strong cancer drug and is only available with a prescription from a specialist.
Your healthcare team will work closely with you to make sure the medicine is safe and effective.
What is Farydak used for?
It is prescribed to treat multiple myeloma (a cancer of plasma cells) in patients who have received at least two prior therapies, including bortezomib and an immunomodulatory drug.
What is the active ingredient?
Panobinostat, a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor.
How does Farydak work?
It blocks HDAC enzymes, leading to cancer cell death by affecting gene expression and protein function inside multiple myeloma cells.
How is Farydak taken?
As oral capsules, usually every other day (three times per week) for two weeks in a 21-day treatment cycle, in combination with bortezomib (Velcade) and dexamethasone.
Is Farydak used alone or with other drugs?
It is typically used in combination with other multiple myeloma drugs for greater effectiveness.
What are the common side effects?
Diarrhea, nausea, fatigue, vomiting, decreased appetite, fever, and swelling.
Are there serious side effects?
Yes, including:
Severe diarrhea and dehydration
Heart rhythm problems (QT prolongation)
Severe infections
Low blood cell counts (anemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia)
Liver toxicity
Who should not take Farydak?
Patients with uncontrolled diarrhea or heart rhythm disorders
Pregnant women (it may cause fetal harm)
Is Farydak safe during pregnancy?
No—it can cause serious birth defects or pregnancy loss. Effective contraception is required during treatment and for 3 months after.
Can I take Farydak while breastfeeding?
No, it is not known if it passes into breast milk; breastfeeding should be avoided.
Do I need regular monitoring?
Yes—patients require frequent blood tests to monitor blood counts, electrolytes, liver function, and ECGs for heart rhythm.
Does Farydak cause hair loss?
Hair thinning or mild loss may occur but is less common than with traditional chemotherapy.
How long does treatment last?
Treatment continues as long as it is effective and tolerated, often reassessed every few cycles.
Does Farydak affect the immune system?
Yes, it can suppress the immune system, increasing infection risk.
Can Farydak be taken with food?
Yes, it can be taken with or without food, but should be swallowed whole.
What should I avoid while taking Farydak?
Avoid grapefruit, grapefruit juice, and St. John’s Wort, as they affect drug metabolism.
Does Farydak interact with other medications?
Yes—especially with strong CYP3A inhibitors or inducers (e.g., ketoconazole, rifampin, carbamazepine).
What if I miss a dose?
Skip the missed dose if it’s close to the next one; never double up.
Is there a generic version available?
No, Farydak (panobinostat) is currently brand only.
Where can I get Farydak?
Available through specialty pharmacies with an oncologist’s prescription.
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