Mechlorethamine
Mechlorethamine is an alkylating agent chemotherapy medication used primarily in the treatment of certain cancers, particularly Hodgkin lymphoma and cutaneous T-cell lymphomas. As a nitrogen mustard compound, it works by cross-linking DNA strands in rapidly dividing cells, which prevents cancer cell proliferation and leads to cell death. While historically significant as one of the first chemotherapeutic agents developed, its use has become more limited in modern oncology due to the availability of newer, more targeted agents.
Mechlorethamine is a chemotherapy alkylating agent used to treat Hodgkin lymphoma and certain skin cancers by damaging DNA in rapidly dividing cancer cells.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- L01AA05
- RxNorm
- 6674
- Generic
- Mechlorethamine
- Class
- atc-l01
- Brands
- Valchlor
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- topical
- Forms
- gel
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Mechlorethamine is primarily used to treat Hodgkin lymphoma (both classic and nodular lymphocyte-predominant types), cutaneous T-cell lymphomas such as mycosis fungoides, and other lymphoproliferative disorders. It may also be used topically for palliation of skin lesions in advanced mycosis fungoides.
As an alkylating agent, mechlorethamine works by forming covalent bonds with DNA strands, creating cross-links between DNA molecules. This DNA damage prevents replication and transcription, ultimately triggering apoptosis in rapidly proliferating cells. Cancer cells with high division rates are particularly susceptible to this mechanism.
Mechlorethamine is a potent vesicant and can cause severe tissue damage if extravasated during IV administration. Common side effects include bone marrow suppression (leading to increased infection risk, anemia, and bleeding), severe nausea and vomiting, and reproductive toxicity. It requires reconstitution immediately before use and must be administered by healthcare professionals experienced in chemotherapy. Topical formulations require careful handling due to irritant properties. Use requires specialized oncology supervision and regular monitoring of blood counts and organ function.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy