Melphalan

Melphalan, the active ingredient in Melphalan, is an alkylating agent (nitrogen mustard) presented as an injectable solution for intravenous use. It treats multiple myeloma, ovarian cancer and melanoma in adult patients.

GNH USA supplies Melphalan as a licensed, GDP-compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, oncology centres and pharmacies worldwide.

Melphalan is employed in oncology to target rapidly dividing malignant cells across several cancer types.

Multiple Myeloma: reduces malignant plasma cell burden and prolongs remission. Ovarian Cancer: inhibits tumor proliferation and supports cytoreductive therapy. Melanoma: provides cytotoxic activity against melanoma cells, often as part of combination regimens.

Melphalan can cause a range of adverse reactions, from mild to life‑threatening.

Common Side Effects: - Nausea and vomiting - Bone‑marrow suppression leading to anemia or neutropenia - Alopecia (hair loss) - Fatigue and weakness - Mucositis (mouth sores)

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Secondary malignancies such as therapy‑related leukemia - Severe infections due to profound immunosuppression - Pulmonary fibrosis or interstitial lung disease - Renal toxicity, including hematuria - Hemorrhagic cystitis - Cardiac toxicity, including arrhythmias

Prior to initiating melphalan therapy, several safety measures should be observed.

Monitor blood counts: perform regular complete blood count assessments. Assess renal function: evaluate serum creatinine and clearance before each cycle. Evaluate hepatic function: check liver enzymes and bilirubin levels. Avoid in patients with known hypersensitivity to melphalan or related nitrogen mustards. Use effective contraception: both male and female patients should employ reliable birth control. Store at controlled room temperature: keep in original container, protect from light and moisture.

Melphalan may interact with other medicines, requiring careful management.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Concurrent use with other myelosuppressive agents (e.g., high‑dose cyclophosphamide). - Combination with high‑dose radiation therapy. - Administration of live vaccines during treatment.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) – increased bleeding risk. - Nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., aminoglycosides) – heightened renal toxicity. - Drugs affecting renal excretion (e.g., non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs).