Melphalan: how to take it safely
Alkeran
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats multiple myeloma and some other cancers, and is used before stem cell transplants.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow tablets whole with water, or it is given by drip.
- You will have regular blood tests.
When to take it
Take it once a day for the days your doctor says, usually in the evening.
Take it with
On an empty stomach.
What to avoid
- Pregnancy.
- Missing your blood tests.
- Strong sunlight.
- Live vaccines unless your cancer team says so.
- Contact with people who have infections such as chickenpox or flu.
- Alcohol, unless your team says it is safe.
Possible side effects
Nausea, vomiting, hair loss, mouth sores, tiredness, low blood counts.
Get help if
Fever, signs of infection, unusual bleeding or bruising, breathlessness or a severe rash: get urgent help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.