Generic name:mechlorethamine (intravenous route) [ me-klor-ETH-a-meen ]
Drug class:Alkylating agents
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 20, 2021.
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Mustargen
Pharmacologic Class: Alkylating Agent
Chemical Class: Nitrogen Mustard
Uses for Mustargen
Mechlorethamine belongs to the group of medicines called alkylating agents. It is used to treat some kinds of cancer as well as some noncancerous conditions.
Mechlorethamine interferes with the growth of cancer cells, which are eventually destroyed. Since the growth of normal body cells may also be affected by mechlorethamine, other effects will also occur. Some of these may be serious and must be reported to your doctor. Other effects, like hair loss, may not be serious but may cause concern. Some effects may not occur for months or years after the medicine is used.
Before you begin treatment with mechlorethamine, you and your doctor should talk about the good this medicine will do as well as the risks of using it.
Mechlorethamine is to be administered only by or under the immediate supervision of your doctor.
Before using Mustargen
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For this medicine, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.
Pediatric
Although there is no specific information comparing use of mechlorethamine in children with use in other age groups, it is not expected to cause different side effects or problems in children than it does in adults.
Geriatric
Many medicines have not been studied specifically in older people...
