GENERIC NAME: MELPHALAN - ORAL (MEL-fuh-lan)
BRAND NAME(S): Alkeran
Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
WARNING: Melphalan can cause a decrease in the body's blood cells (bone marrow suppression), and can cause blood cell cancer (e.g., leukemia). Notify your doctor immediately if you develop easy bleeding or bruising, unusual fatigue, or signs of an infection such as persistent sore throat or fever.
USES: Melphalan is used to treat certain types of cancer.
HOW TO USE: This is a potent medication. Take it exactly as prescribed. Unless your doctor instructs you otherwise, drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. This helps your kidneys to remove the drug from your body and avoid some of the side effects. Do not stop taking this medication, even if you feel nauseated or experience vomiting. If you vomit shortly after a dose, or if you miss a dose, contact your doctor.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea and vomiting may occur. Taking the medication on an empty stomach with a full glass of water may help relieve vomiting. Changes in diet such as eating several small meals or limiting activity may help lessen some of these effects. In some cases, drug therapy may be necessary to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting. If nausea and vomiting persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Contact your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: fever, chills, painful or difficult urination, small red spots on the skin, easy bruising or bleeding, black tarry stools, blood in urine or stools, skin rash or itch, swollen feet or lower legs, cough, shortness of breath, sores in mouth or on lips, lower back or side pain. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: stomach pain, yellowing eyes and skin, dark urine, fatigue. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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