Alkeran (Melphalan) for Myeloma

Overview

Alkeran is a prescription medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating multiple myeloma. Alkeran is often combined with other drugs such as Velcade or Thalomid and a corticosteroid. Alkeran is also known by its drug name, melphalan. Alkeran is an anti-cancer drug used in chemotherapy. Alkeran is a member of a class of drugs called alkylating agents. Alkeran is believed to work by preventing the production of DNA in cells, blocking cell division.

How do I take it?

Alkeran is taken orally once a day. Alkeran is available as a tablet.

Side effects

The FDA-approved label for Alkeran lists common side effects including decreased blood count, mouth sores, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, temporary hair loss, skin rash, itching, increased risk for infection, and anemia. Rare but serious side effects listed for Alkeran include severe lung damage, hepatitis, hypersensitivity reactions, and the risk of permanent infertility in both men and women.

For more details about this treatment, visit:

Alkeran — RxList https://www.rxlist.com/alkeran-drug.htm

Drug Therapy for Multiple Myeloma — American Cancer Society https://www.cancer.org/cancer/multiple-myeloma/treating/chemotherapy.html