MELIEVA contains Melphalan, an alkylating anticancer agent. It works by cross-linking DNA strands, thereby inhibiting DNA and RNA synthesis and leading to the death of rapidly dividing cancer cells.

Melphalan is used for the treatment of:

1. Multiple myeloma (oral therapy)

2. Ovarian cancer

3. Advanced breast cancer (selected cases)

4. Polycythemia vera (occasionally)

Common side effects:

•  Nausea and vomiting

•  Loss of appetite

•  Fatigue

•  Hair thinning

•  Mouth ulcers

Hematological:

•  Bone marrow suppression (anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia)

Serious side effects:

•  Severe infections due to low blood counts

•  Secondary malignancies (rare, long-term use)

•  Liver function abnormalities

•  Typical dose: 0.15 mg/kg/day orally for 4 days
    or

•  6 mg/m²/day for 4 days (regimen dependent)

Cycles are usually repeated every 4–6 weeks, depending on response and blood counts.
 

NOTE: This medicine should be taken only under a doctor’s supervision.