mechlorethamine hydrochloride /mek′lôreth″əmēn/ , an antineoplastic alkylating agent. Also called nitrogen mustard. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed in the treatment of a variety of neoplasms, especially lymphomas, and of malignant effusions. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Bone marrow depression, pregnancy, infection, or known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibits its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the most serious adverse effects are bone marrow depression and inflammation caused by extravasation at the site of injection. Nausea, vomiting, and alopecia also may occur.
