Panobinostat
Say it: pan-oh-BIN-oh-stat · Brand names: Farydak
Panobinostat is a pill that kills myeloma cells by changing how their genes are switched on and off.
What it is
Panobinostat blocks enzymes called HDACs that help control which genes are turned on in a cell. Blocking them causes stress inside myeloma cells. Together with bortezomib, this leads the myeloma cells to die.
Often used for
- multiple myeloma that came back after at least 2 other treatments, together with bortezomib and dexamethasone (no longer sold in the United States)
How you get it
Panobinostat is a capsule taken by mouth. It was taken 3 times a week for 2 weeks, then a week off, in a 3-week cycle. Your schedule may be different.
Common side effects and what helps
- Diarrhea, which can be severe. Use the diarrhea medicine your team suggests and drink plenty of fluids.
- Feeling very tired or weak. Rest when you need to.
- Nausea, vomiting, or less appetite. Take your anti-nausea medicine as your team tells you.
- Low platelets, which can cause easy bruising or bleeding.
- Low white blood cell counts, which raise your risk of infection. Wash your hands often.
- Swelling in your legs or feet.
- Fever. Call your team for any fever.
Call your care team right away if you have
- A fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher, or chills
- Diarrhea, or more stools than usual, or belly cramps
- Chest pain, a fast or uneven heartbeat, fainting, or feeling dizzy
- Unusual bleeding or bruising, or black or bloody stools
- Dizziness, very dark urine, or feeling very thirsty from losing fluids
- Yellow skin or eyes
Before you start, tell your team
- If you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breastfeeding
- If you have heart problems, including a past heart attack or an abnormal heartbeat
- If you have liver problems
- If you eat star fruit, pomegranate, or grapefruit, or drink their juices
- All the medicines, vitamins, and herbal products you take
Good to know
- Panobinostat was taken off the market in the United States in 2021. The company withdrew it, and it is no longer sold here. You may only see it in other countries or in a research study.
- It carries strong warnings for severe diarrhea and serious heart problems, including heart rhythm changes. Heart tracings (ECG) and blood salts were checked often.
- It can cause serious bleeding and infections. Blood counts were checked often.
- It can harm an unborn baby.
At home
- Take it exactly as your team tells you. Swallow the capsules whole with water. Do not open, crush, or chew them.
- If you miss a dose, ask your care team what to do. Do not take two doses to make up for it.
- Store at room temperature, away from children and pets.
Questions to ask
- Since panobinostat is not sold in the United States, what other treatments are right for me?
- If I am in a study, who do I call about side effects?
- What should I do for diarrhea?
- How will my heart be checked?
Part of these treatment plans
Side effect guides
- Fatigue (tiredness)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Appetite loss and weight loss
- Low white blood cells and infection risk
- Low platelets and bleeding
Sources
Quick answers
- What is Panobinostat?
- Panobinostat is a pill that kills myeloma cells by changing how their genes are switched on and off. Brand names: Farydak.
- What is Panobinostat used for?
- multiple myeloma that came back after at least 2 other treatments, together with bortezomib and dexamethasone (no longer sold in the United States).
- How is Panobinostat given?
- Panobinostat is a capsule taken by mouth. It was taken 3 times a week for 2 weeks, then a week off, in a 3-week cycle. Your schedule may be different.
- What are the common side effects of Panobinostat?
- Diarrhea, which can be severe. Feeling very tired or weak. Nausea, vomiting, or less appetite. Low platelets, which can cause easy bruising or bleeding. Low white blood cell counts, which raise your risk of infection. Swelling in your legs or feet. Fever.
- When should I call my care team while taking Panobinostat?
- A fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher, or chills; Diarrhea, or more stools than usual, or belly cramps; Chest pain, a fast or uneven heartbeat, fainting, or feeling dizzy; Unusual bleeding or bruising, or black or bloody stools; Dizziness, very dark urine, or feeling very thirsty from losing fluids; Yellow skin or eyes.
- Which chemotherapy plans include Panobinostat?
- PBD.
Last updated: 2026-10-27. Medically reviewed by Veli Bakalov, MD, medical oncologist (October 2026). General education from Step by Step, the patient portal of HemeOncBuddy.