Alkeran
Drug name: Alkeran
Active Ingredients:
Melphalan
Therapeutic actions: Alkeran is a type of cancer medication. The drug belongs to the class of alkylating agents. It works by slowing the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body. The treatment period can differ largely due to personal response to the drug and the type of cancer treated.
Indications: The drug is used in treatment of:
- Myeloma(blood cancer)
- Ovary cancer
- Breast Cancer
Contraindications and cautions: Before using th drug:
- Tell your health care provider if you ever had hypersensitivity to any anti-cancer medicine or to any other drugs
- Melphalan may interfere with normal genital function in women and in men.
- Do not use vaccinations without first consulting your doctor.
- Do not use the drug if you are planning on having a baby, are pregnant or are breastfeeding.(FDA pregnancy category D)
Adverse effects: There are possible side-effects associated with this medicine that can affect individuals in different ways. If a side effect is stated here, that does not necessarily mean the fact that all people using Alkeran will experience it or any other. Common side effects include:
- Loss in weight
- Weakness, fatigue
- Acne or blisters.
If any of this occur consult your doctor immediately:
- Mouth blistering
- Bleeding or bruising
- Blood in the urine
- Black stools
- Coughing
- Sore throat
- Breathing problems
- Congestion
- Dizziness
- allergic reactions
- Changed menstrual cycle
- Jaundice
- Chills or fever
The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer.
For more information about any other possible risks associated with Alkeran, please read the information provided with Alkeran or consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Interactions: It is important to tell your doctor or pharmacist what medicines you are already taking, including those bought without a prescription and herbal medicines, before you start treatment with Alkeran. Similarly, check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medication while taking this one, to ensure that the combination is safe. Especially mention to your doctor these groups of drugs:
- Antibiotics
- Steroids
- Other chemotherapy medicine
- IF you have ever experienced radiation therapy.
Additional Information: DO NOT SHARE Alkeran with others. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS PRODUCT, as well as syringes and needles, if needed during treatment, out of the reach of children. Do not reuse needles, syringes, or other materials.
