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Real members of MyMyelomaTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

l've been in treatment for 7 months and started maintenance last month. My doctor has trimmed back on my Revlamid because of side affects.

A MyMyelomaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Bethesda, MD

I am now on 15 mgs revlamid, 21 days on, 7 off. Started on 25 mgs last Christmas. Oncologist did this to cut back on side effects. Started the 15mgs 4 days ago and have had worst diarrhea for last 3 days. This is new to me. Why didn't it happen before? Any thoughts?

August 24
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MyMyelomaTeam

Why is diarrhea suddenly appearing after switching to a lower dose of Revlimid?

It might seem counterintuitive that reducing your dose could bring on new symptoms, but this is actually something that can happen with Revlimid. Here's what may be going on:

Revlimid is known to cause something called bile acid malabsorption Show Full Answer

Why is diarrhea suddenly appearing after switching to a lower dose of Revlimid?

It might seem counterintuitive that reducing your dose could bring on new symptoms, but this is actually something that can happen with Revlimid. Here's what may be going on:

Revlimid is known to cause something called bile acid malabsorption (BAM). This means your small intestine struggles to absorb bile salts properly. The excess salts then cause your colon to release more water, leading to loose or watery stools.

What makes Revlimid particularly tricky is that this type of diarrhea is often late-onset — meaning it can show up anywhere from 17 to 24 months after starting the drug. So it's entirely possible your body is only now reacting, regardless of the dose change. Some MyMyelomaTeam members have shared similar experiences with Revlimid-related diarrhea, with one describing it as "never-ending," leading their oncologist to discontinue it.

It's really important to contact your oncologist now, especially since this has been going on for 3 days. Severe diarrhea can lead to dehydration quickly, which is a serious risk.

In the meantime, some things that may help include:
- Eating well-cooked vegetables, white rice, yogurt, and lean meats
- Avoiding fatty or fried foods
- Staying hydrated with fluids containing sodium and potassium
- Asking your doctor about medications like loperamide (Imodium) — but only with their approval first

August 24
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Still scoping out bathroom locations after 15 yrs. The therapies destroy all good gut bacteria, and irritates the entire mucosal GI tract. I haven’t been on Revlimid for 10 yrs, and still deal with watery stools, and lack absorption of nutrients resulting in weight loss!!
So, maybe someone has a magic bullet for that, if so I’m signing up immediately!

August 31
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

I had a massive bout of diarrhea many months after being on lenalidomide10mg/Eliquis5mg. Apparently, it happens like that. My NP gave me colasevelam to stop the diarrhea. It worked almost immediately, in fact, it worked to well. I ended up being constipated for several days and ended up taking colace, senna and Miralax to get things going.

August 25

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