How does it work?

Melphalan is one of a group of anti-cancer medicines called 'alkylating agents'. Cancers form when some cells within the body multiply uncontrollably and abnormally. These cells then spread and destroy nearby tissues. Melphalan acts by slowing this process down. It kills cancer cells by damaging DNA (the genetic material inside the cells) and stops them from dividing. Melphalan is used in the treatment of a range of cancers including bone-marrow cancer (myeloma), cancer of the ovaries (ovarian cancer) and advanced breast cancer. It is also used in the management of a disease called polycythaemia vera in which there are too many red cells in the blood. Melphalan can be used alone or in combination with other anti-cancer medicines or surgery. Unfortunately, melphalan also affects normal, healthy cells and therefore it produces serious side-effects during long-term treatment. The most important side effect is in the bone marrow where blood cells are made. Regular blood tests may therefore be needed to prevent the damage becoming permanent. Melphalan can be taken by mouth as tablets or it can be given by injection. This medicine should be handled with care and it is advisable to take adequate contraceptive measures when either partner is receiving this medicine.

What is it used for?

A form of cancer of the bone marrow (myeloma)

Advanced breast cancer

Cancer of the ovaries

Excessive levels of red blood cells in the blood

Warning!

Women who are pregnant should not handle this medicine.

Handle this medicine with care; avoid direct contact with bare skin

Use with caution in

Decreased kidney function

Radiotherapy treatment

Treatment with other anti-cancer chemotherapy

Not to be used in

Known sensitivity or allergy to any ingredient

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

The use of this medicine in pregnancy is not recommended, especially in the first trimester, unless considered essential by your doctor. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

This medicine should not be used by breastfeeding mothers. Discuss this with your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Decreased production of blood cells by the bone marrow (bone marrow suppression)

Nausea and vomiting

Stopping or absence of menstrual periods (amenorrhoea)

Inflammation of the lining of the mouth (stomatitis)

Hair loss (alopecia)

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Go To Next Page>>
The documents contained in this web site are presented for information purposes only. The material is in no way intended to replace professional medical care or attention by a qualified practitioner. The materials in this web site cannot and should not be used as a basis for diagnosis or choice of treatment. Conditions for use



© Copyright 1998 - 2004 NetDoctor.co.uk - All rights reserved