For treating cancer.
Brand Name(s): Alkeran
Generic Name: Melphalan
Instructions
Take the medicine with 250 mL (1 cup) of water.
This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.
Keep the medicine in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.
Keep the medicine away from heat and light.
You may need to cycle between periods of taking the medicine and taking breaks from the medicine to allow your body to recover. Follow your instructions carefully.
Drink plenty of water while on this medicine.
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.
Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.
Keep using this medicine for the full number of days that it is prescribed. Do not stop the medicine even if you start to feel better.
Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.
Cautions
This medicine may cause serious bleeding problems in patients taking blood thinner medications. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully to monitor your blood lab tests if you are on blood thinners.
Avoid touching any powder from a broken tablet. If the powder touches the skin, nose, or eyes, rinse thoroughly with water.
Always wash your hands after handling this medicine.
Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.
May cause mouth sores. Brush teeth gently. Avoid products containing alcohol. Rinse mouth with a mixture of water and baking soda or salt.
Some patients on this medicine have developed severe, life-threatening infections. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine.
This medicine may increase the risk of cancer. Ask your doctor about the benefits and risks.
There is an increased risk of bleeding while on this medicine, please tell your doctor or nurse if you notice any excessive bleeding or bruising.
Do not use the medication any more than instructed.
Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.
This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.
Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.
Do not breastfeed while on this medicine.
This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.
Women who are pregnant or in their childbearing years should not touch or handle this medicine. This medicine can be absorbed through the woman's skin and harm the unborn baby.
Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.
Side Effects
The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.
- decreased appetite
- diarrhea
- hair loss
- mouth sores or irritation
- nausea and vomiting
- stomach upset or abdominal pain
Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:
- decreased awareness or responsiveness
- bleeding or bruising
- fever or chills
- signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
- menstruation changes (missed or fewer periods)
- shortness of breath
- sore throat
A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.
Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This document tells you briefly how to take your medicine, but it does not tell you all there is to know about it. Your doctor or pharmacist may give you other documents about your medicine. Please talk to them if you have any questions. Always follow their advice.
There is a more complete description of this medicine available in English. Scan this code on your smartphone or tablet or use the web address below. You can also ask your pharmacist for a printout. If you have any questions, please ask your pharmacist.
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More information about MELPHALAN - ORAL
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Conditions of Use: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. The display and use of this drug information is subject to express Terms of Use.