Melphalan is a chemotherapy drug used mainly for blood cancers like multiple myeloma and some solid tumors. It works by damaging cancer cell DNA so cells can’t divide. Doctors may give melphalan as a short IV infusion or as an oral tablet, depending on the treatment plan.
How will you know if melphalan is right for you? Your oncologist will base that on the cancer type, prior treatments, overall health, and goals of care. Melphalan is often part of combination therapy or used before a stem cell transplant.
The most common issue is bone marrow suppression. That means fewer red cells, white cells, and platelets. Watch for fatigue, easy bruising, infections, or unusual bleeding. Your care team will check blood counts regularly and may delay treatment if levels fall too low.
Other frequent side effects include nausea, mouth sores, diarrhea, and hair thinning. Nausea can often be managed with anti-nausea meds your doctor prescribes. Mouth sores are uncomfortable; good oral hygiene and rinses help reduce them.
Infection risk goes up while blood counts are low. Avoid crowded places when your white cell count is down, and call your clinic right away for fevers over 38°C (100.4°F). Keep a list of emergency contacts and your chemo team handy.
Fertility can be affected by melphalan. If you might want children later, talk to your doctor about fertility preservation before starting treatment. Also, melphalan can harm a fetus — avoid pregnancy and use reliable contraception during treatment and for a time after, as advised by your provider.
Drug interactions matter. Tell your team about all prescription meds, supplements, and herbs you take. Some drugs can raise side effect risks or change how melphalan works.
How is melphalan given and monitored? For IV doses you’ll visit a clinic. Oral doses come with clear instructions—take exactly as prescribed. Blood tests, kidney and liver checks, and regular clinic visits are part of monitoring to keep treatment safe and effective.
Questions to ask your oncologist: Why am I getting melphalan? What are the likely side effects for my situation? How will you monitor me? When should I call for help? These questions keep you informed and in control.
If you’re considering buying medicines online, only use licensed pharmacies and always keep a prescription. Never take extra doses or skip monitoring because you feel okay. If a new symptom appears, report it promptly.
Melphalan is a useful tool against some cancers but comes with risks that are manageable with good monitoring and clear communication with your care team. Stick to the plan, ask questions, and get support when you need it.