Melphalan
(MEL-fuh-lan)
Definition | Special instructions | Side effects | Warning signs | Contact us
What is melphalan?
Melphalan (Alkeran") is a chemotherapy medicine used in bone marrow transplantation and to treat cancer. It is given through an injection into a vein.
Special instructions
- This medicine is only given in the hospital or clinic.
Side effects
- Hair loss
- Low blood counts (decreased white blood cells needed to fight infection and decreased platelets that are necessary for proper blood clotting)
- Lung problems (rare)
- Liver problems
- Bladder irritation (rare)
- Pain at injection site
- Upset stomach
- Mouth ulcers
Report to your child's doctor if the following symptoms continue longer than 24 hours: mouth sores, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, rash.
Warning signs
Call your child's doctor if your child experiences:
- Allergic reaction (chills, fever, rash, low blood pressure, coughing or breathing problems)
- Unusual bleeding or bruising due to low platelet count
- Sore throat
- Fever over 101.5°F (38.6°C) once or 100.5°F (38°C) twice in 24 hours
Contact us
For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.
Patient Education Program V 5049 5/01
Rev. 9/05, 8/07
