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Pronunciation ⬇

MEL-fa-lan

Classifications ⬆ ⬇

Therapeutic Classification: antineoplastics

Pharmacologic Classification: alkylating agents

Indications ⬆ ⬇

High Alert


Action ⬆ ⬇

  • Inhibits DNA and RNA synthesis by alkylation (cell-cycle phase-nonspecific).
Therapeutic effects:
  • Death of rapidly replicating cells, particularly malignant ones.
  • Also has immunosuppressive properties.

Pharmacokinetics ⬆ ⬇

Absorption: IV and intra-arterial administration results in complete bioavailability.

Distribution: Rapidly distributed to tissues.

Metabolism/Excretion: Rapidly metabolized in the bloodstream. Small amounts (10%) excreted unchanged by the kidneys.

Half-Life: IV: 1.5 hr; Intra-arterial: 1.1 hr.

Time/Action Profile ⬆ ⬇

( effects on blood counts)

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
IVunknown2–3 wk4–5 wk
Intra-arterialunknown10–13 days2–3 wk

Contraind./Precautions ⬆ ⬇

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects ⬆ ⬇

Interactions ⬆ ⬇

Drug-drug:

Route/Dosage ⬆ ⬇

Multiple Myeloma (Palliative Treatment)

Renal Impairment

Multiple Myeloma (Conditioning Treatment)

Unresectable Hepatic Metastases in Patients With Uveal Melanoma

Availability ⬆ ⬇

(Generic available)

Assessment ⬆ ⬇

Lab Test Considerations:

Implementation ⬆ ⬇

IV Administration:

Patient/Family Teaching ⬆ ⬇

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes ⬆ ⬇

US Brand Names ⬆ ⬇

Alkeran, Evomela, Hepzato, Ivra

Code ⬆

NDC Code