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Melphalan - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Melphalan Medication Information

Discover comprehensive details about Melphalan, including its pronunciation, uses, dosage instructions, indications, and guidelines on how and when to take it or avoid it.

The updated prescription information covers potential side effects, precautions, warnings, and storage recommendations.

Additionally, explore the Melphalan brands available in India and internationally, along with pricing information. For personalized advice, consult your healthcare provider.

Generic Name : Melphalan
Pronunciation : mel' fa lan

Brand Names or Trade Names of Melphalan

India :

International :


Alkeran

Why is Melphalan Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is a chemotherapy agent, prescribed for multiple myeloma, melanoma, and ovarian carcinoma.  It stops or slows the growth of cancer cells in the body.

When should Melphalan not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with severe bone marrow suppression and hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Melphalan?

PO- Multiple Myeloma: The usual oral dose is 6 mg (3 tablets) daily. The entire daily dose may be given at one time.
Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: dose of 0.2 mg/kg daily for 5 days as a single course. Melanoma: 0.6-1 mg/kg.

How should Melphalan be taken?

It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, on an empty stomach. It also comes as a solution for injection to be administered by a healthcare provider into the vein.

What are the warnings and precautions for Melphalan?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of bone marrow depression, infection, low white blood cell count, kidney problems, shingles, chickenpox, under going radiation therapy, any allergy, who are taking other medications, children, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• Avoid contact with people who have infections.

• It may affect platelet counts; to prevent bleeding avoid injury or bruising.

• Monitor complete blood counts regularly while taking this medication.

What are the side effects of Melphalan?

Most common - Bone marrow suppression.
Gastrointestinal - Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and oral ulceration.
Liver - Abnormal liver function, jaundice and liver inflammation.
Miscellaneous - Lung scar, lung inflammation, skin hypersensitivity, rash, inflammation of blood vessels, hair loss and anemia.
Allergic reactions - Hives, swelling, and rarely shock.

What are the other precautions for Melphalan?

Avoid excess dosage.

What are the storage conditions for Melphalan?

Store it in the refrigerator (2° to 8°C), and keep away from children.

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