Challenges in IMiD Prescription Management + the Pharmacist’s Role
Published Date: October 14, 2025
Challenges in IMiD Prescription Management + the Pharmacist’s Role
Immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) including lenalidomide, pomalidomide, and thalidomide remain foundational in the management of multiple myeloma and are often continued over long durations. With that long-term use comes an ongoing operational reality. IMiD therapy requires strict adherence to Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) processes designed to support safe use. In practice, these requirements can translate into monthly checkpoints, tightly defined dispensing windows, and frequent coordination across the care team, patient, and REMS-certified specialty pharmacy.
This article featured in NCODA’s official publication, Oncolytics Today, provides a step-by-step look at where IMiD prescribing and dispensing most commonly slows down. It highlights how timing constraints, documentation and authorization steps, limited dispensing networks, and coverage or assistance needs can delay therapy. The article also outlines how pharmacist-led workflows can help standardize processes, reduce administrative burden, and support timely continuation of therapy.
Key highlights
- Overview of REMS steps that influence IMiD prescribing and dispensing workflows
- Common bottlenecks that can delay therapy, from authorization timing to specialty pharmacy constraints
- Real-world access challenges, including coordination and financial assistance considerations
- Workflow approaches that help teams streamline IMiD management and reduce burden
Read the full article in Oncolytics Today for a closer look at REMS requirements, workflow barriers, and pharmacist-led strategies that support timely IMiD therapy.
Yumena Kawasaki, PharmD, BCOP
Eleni Gaspar, PharmD