What are the side effects of Melphalan/Melphalan tablets?

Melphalan/Melphalan is a chemotherapy drug commonly used to treat multiple myeloma and certain types of cancer. In its clinical studies, a series of significant adverse reactions were discovered, which have an important impact on patients' health and treatment effects.

First of all, bone marrow suppression is one of the most common side effects of melphalan, mainly manifested as leukopenia, thrombocytopenia and anemia. This condition may leave patients susceptible to infection, increased risk of bleeding, and fatigue, among other symptoms. In addition, patients taking melphalan may develop secondary malignancies, such as myeloproliferative syndromes and acute myeloid leukemia, increasing the complexity and risk of treatment.

Secondly, melphalan may also cause gastrointestinal toxicity, with common symptoms including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomatitis. These discomforts may seriously affect the patient's quality of life and even lead to malnutrition. In addition, impaired liver function is also a concern, manifested by hepatitis and jaundice.

In terms of allergic reactions, some patients may develop rashes or other allergic phenomena, which require timely monitoring and treatment. Interstitial pneumonia is another potentially serious side effect that can cause difficulty breathing and other lung problems. In addition, melphalan may cause suppression of ovarian function in women, especially in premenopausal women, while men may face suppression of testicular function.

In terms of metabolic and nutritional disorders, hypokalemia is also a possible condition that requires regular monitoring of electrolyte levels. The occurrence of musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders, such as myalgia, muscle atrophy or fibrosis, and compartment syndrome, may also interfere with the patient's normal life and recovery process.

Finally, the use of melphalan may also lead to the occurrence of skin and subcutaneous tissue diseases, the most common manifestation of which is hair loss. In addition, pulmonary fibrosis, as a potentially fatal complication, although relatively rare, requires sufficient attention.