Melphalan — what it treats and how to stay safe

Melphalan is a chemotherapy drug used for cancers like multiple myeloma and certain ovarian tumors. It's a strong medicine that damages cancer cells' DNA so they stop growing. Because it also affects healthy cells, knowing what to expect and how to protect yourself matters.

How melphalan is given

You may get melphalan by mouth as capsules or through an IV in a hospital or clinic. Sometimes doctors use very high doses before a stem cell transplant. The exact schedule and dose depend on the cancer type, your overall health, and the treatment plan your oncologist chooses. Never change the dose or stop treatment without talking to your care team.

Side effects, monitoring, and simple safety tips

Melphalan commonly lowers blood counts. That raises your risk of infections, bleeding, and fatigue. Your care team will check blood tests regularly. If you have fever, heavy bleeding, sudden breathlessness, or new severe pain, call them right away.

Other side effects include nausea, mouth sores, diarrhea, and hair thinning. Your doctor can prescribe anti-nausea drugs and mouth care tips to reduce discomfort. Mouth sores: rinse with a mild salt-and-baking soda solution if recommended and tell your nurse at the first sign of sore spots.

Fertility can be affected. If you might want children later, ask about sperm or egg banking before starting treatment. Pregnancy during melphalan treatment is dangerous — use reliable contraception and avoid becoming pregnant while on therapy.

There are rare but serious risks such as lung damage, liver problems, and the chance of developing a second cancer years after treatment. Your team will monitor breathing, liver tests, and long-term follow-up as needed.

Drug interactions matter. Other medicines that suppress bone marrow, live vaccines, or certain herbal supplements can cause problems. Always tell your oncologist about vitamins, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements you take.

Handling capsules and body fluids: melphalan is a cytotoxic drug. Follow hospital or pharmacy instructions for safe handling and disposal. If you or a caregiver are managing pills at home, use gloves if advised and wash hands well after contact.

Buying melphalan: this drug requires a prescription. Use licensed pharmacies only. Avoid unknown online sellers — counterfeit or mishandled chemo is dangerous.

Practical tips to make treatment easier: plan for regular blood tests, arrange help for a few days after each dose if fatigue hits, keep anti-nausea meds handy, and protect yourself from infections (wash hands often, avoid sick contacts). Keep a simple checklist of symptoms to report to your team.

If you want one clear rule: keep communication open with your oncology team. They tailor care to you and can fix most problems quickly when they know about them.