Melphalan
Melphalan is a chemotherapy medication classified as an alkylating agent, used to treat certain types of cancer by interfering with cancer cell DNA. It is primarily indicated for multiple myeloma, ovarian cancer, and as part of conditioning regimens before stem cell transplantation.
Melphalan is an alkylating chemotherapy agent used to treat multiple myeloma, ovarian cancer, and other malignancies.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- L01AA03
- RxNorm
- 6718
- Generic
- Melphalan
- Class
- atc-l01
- Brands
- Alkeran, Evomela, Hepzato, Ivra
- Availability
- rx
- Pregnancy
- D
- Lactation
- unsafe
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet, injection, solution
- 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.
Melphalan is used to treat multiple myeloma (a plasma cell cancer), epithelial ovarian cancer, and occasionally breast cancer. It is also employed as part of conditioning regimens prior to hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
As an alkylating agent, Melphalan works by binding to DNA and creating cross-links between DNA strands. This prevents DNA replication and transcription, ultimately causing cancer cell death (apoptosis). It is a nitrogen mustard derivative that attacks rapidly dividing cells.
Melphalan should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified oncologist. Common side effects include bone marrow suppression (leading to anemia, infection risk, and bleeding), nausea, vomiting, and mouth sores. Regular blood monitoring is essential during treatment. May cause infertility and carries risks during pregnancy.
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 August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy