Alkeran® | Alkeran (Melphalan) - 2mg (25 Tablets)

What is Alkeran (melphalan)?

• Alkeran (Melphalan) is a cancer medication. Alkeran (Melphalan) interferes with the growth of cancer cells and slows their growth and spread in the body.
• Alkeran (Melphalan) is used to treat multiple myeloma (a type of blood cancer), cancer of the ovary, and breast cancer.
• Alkeran (Melphalan) may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

How should I take Alkeran (melphalan)?

Take Alkeran (Melphalan) exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take Alkeran (Melphalan) in larger or smaller amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from Alkeran (Melphalan).

Take the Alkeran (Melphalan) oral tablet with a large glass of water.

Alkeran (Melphalan) injection is given through a needle placed into a vein. Your doctor, nurse, or other healthcare provider will give you this injection in a clinic or hospital setting.

Tell your doctor right away if any of the Alkeran (Melphalan) injection gets on your skin or if you feel pain, burning, or other skin irritation when the medicine is injected.

Alkeran (Melphalan) is usually given for a few weeks at a time, followed by a 4-week period off the drug, during which your blood is tested to see how your body responded to the medication. Your doctor will determine how often you use Alkeran (Melphalan) and for how long. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

Alkeran (Melphalan) can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. Alkeran (Melphalan) can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick from being around others who are ill. To be sure your blood cells do not get too low, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Store Alkeran (Melphalan) tablets in the refrigerator and protect them from light. If you store Alkeran (Melphalan) injection at home, keep it at room temperature and protect it from heat, moisture, and light.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of Alkeran (Melphalan).

Symptoms of a Alkeran (Melphalan) overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, mouth sores, bloody or black stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.

What should I avoid while taking Alkeran (melphalan)?

Avoid contact with people who have colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection.

Do not receive a "live" vaccine while you are being treated with melphalan, and avoid coming into contact with anyone who has recently received a live vaccine. There is a chance that the virus could be passed on to you.

Alkeran (melphalan) side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness;
• fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;
• nausea, stomach pain, low fever, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);
• missed menstrual periods;
• unusual lumps or masses;
• red skin rash, rapid pulse, pain, weight loss;
• breathing problems or a cough that won't go away; or
• pale or yellowed skin, dark colored urine, confusion and weakness.

Other less serious side effects may be more likely to occur, such as:

• mild nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
• white patches or sores inside your mouth or on your lips;
• temporary hair loss; or
• mild skin itching and rash.