Melphater 50mg Injection

About

Melphater 50mg Injection contains melphalan, an alkylating agent belonging to the nitrogen mustard class of chemotherapy drugs. It works by interfering with the DNA replication and transcription processes in rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells. Melphalan forms cross-links in DNA strands, preventing cell division and leading to cell death. This cytotoxic action makes it effective in treating various hematologic malignancies and solid tumors.

Administered intravenously, Melphater is often used in high-dose regimens, particularly in conjunction with autologous stem cell transplantation for multiple myeloma and certain lymphomas. Its potent myelosuppressive effects necessitate careful monitoring of blood counts and supportive care during treatment.

Uses

• Treatment of multiple myeloma
• Management of ovarian cancer
• Palliative treatment of breast cancer
• High-dose conditioning regimen for stem cell transplantation

Directions For Use

Administered intravenously by a healthcare professional. Dosage and schedule are determined by your doctor based on your condition.

Benefits

• Effective against various cancers
• Used in high-dose chemotherapy regimens
• Can improve remission rates
• Part of conditioning for stem cell transplant
• Targets rapidly dividing cancer cells
• Established efficacy in multiple myeloma

Side Effects

• Severe bone marrow suppression (anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Oral mucositis/stomatitis
• Diarrhea
• Hair loss (alopecia)
• Skin rash
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Liver function abnormalities
• Pulmonary fibrosis (rare)
• Secondary malignancies (long-term risk)
• Infertility

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Avoid alcohol as it can exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects and potentially increase liver toxicity.
• Pregnancy - Highly teratogenic and embryotoxic. Absolutely contraindicated during pregnancy due to severe risk of fetal harm or death.
• Breastfeeding - Contraindicated during breastfeeding due to the potential for serious adverse effects on the infant.
• Liver - Use with extreme caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Dosage adjustments may be necessary, and liver function should be closely monitored.
• Kidney - Dosage reduction is often required in patients with renal impairment due to decreased drug clearance. Close monitoring of kidney function is essential.
• Lung - Use with caution in patients with pre-existing lung conditions, as pulmonary toxicity (e.g., interstitial pneumonitis, fibrosis) can occur, though rare.

Disclaimer

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