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Melphalan ( MEL-fah-lan ) (Phenylalanine Mustard, L-Pam, Alkeran®) What is this medication used for? In children, melphalan is used as a part of a conditioning regimen in preparation for stem cell transplantation and as part of chemotherapy for retinoblastoma
What does it look like? • Tablet • Liquid How is it given? • By mouth (oral or po) • Into the vein (IV) or venous access device • Intra-arterial or intravitreally (retinoblastoma) What are the common side effects? • Nausea and vomiting • Low blood counts 2–4 weeks after treatment • Mouth sores • Hair loss (alopecia) • Electrolyte level changes, such as decreased potassium or decreased phosphorus • Diarrhea • Constipation • Decreased appetite • Feeling tired (fatigue, malaise) What are the less common side effects? • Yellowing of the skin (Jaundice) • Itching (pruritis) • Allergic reaction (rash, chest pain, or low blood pressure) What are the serious side effects? • Lung damage • Kidney damage
Special instructions: • This medicine can cause bladder and kidney damage. Blood will be drawn to check kidney function. Fluid intake and urine output will be closely monitored when receiving this medicine through a vein. • If melphalan is taken as tablets at home, increase fluid intake. • Tablets should be taken on an empty stomach (1 hour prior to a meal or 2 hours after a meal). • Tablets should be stored in the refrigerator and protected from light. • Wear gloves while handling this medication, and immediately wash skin that makes contact with this medication. • Consult your healthcare provider before becoming pregnant, fathering a child, or breastfeeding. It may be important to use birth control while taking this medicine and for several months after treatment is completed.
Notes from Your Healthcare Team
Not all of the possible side effects of this medicine and precautions related to taking it are covered in this information sheet. For a complete list of side effects and precautions, ask your healthcare professional (doctor, nurse, pharmacist) for a manufacturer’s package insert or another reference.
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