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CHEMICAL NAME
MELPHALAN.
INDICATIONS
Melphalan is used to treat certain types of cancer.
DIRECTIONS
Melphalan 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.
PRECAUTIONS
Tell your doctor if you have: kidney problems, blood disorders, allergies (especially drug allergies). Contraceptive (birth control) measures are recommended for use in men and women while taking this medication. Melphalan is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this medication. It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
OVERDOSAGE
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and intestinal bleeding.
INFORMATION
If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor. Carry an identification card at all times that states you are taking this medicine. Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If using this medicine for an extended of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.
NOTES
The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use. Do not stop or start any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
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