Linomide

Linomide (also known as Roquinimex) was an experimental drug intended for the treatment of cancer, specifically multiple myeloma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia. It was an immunomodulatory agent that primarily inhibited the production of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), cytokines involved in the growth and survival of cancer cells.

Linomide underwent several clinical trials in the 1990s and early 2000s. While initial results showed some promise in reducing disease progression in certain cancers, later phase III trials were halted due to safety concerns. These concerns included an increased risk of thromboembolic events, such as stroke and myocardial infarction.

Ultimately, the development of Linomide was discontinued and the drug never received approval for marketing from regulatory agencies such as the FDA or EMA. Despite showing some anti-cancer activity in preclinical and early clinical studies, the unfavorable risk-benefit profile led to its abandonment as a therapeutic agent. It is therefore no longer considered a viable treatment option for any cancer or other medical condition.