melphalan /mel″fəlan/ , an antineoplastic alkylating agent. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed in the treatment of malignant neoplastic diseases, including palliative treatment of multiple myeloma and nonresectable ovarian carcinoma. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Pregnancy, recent exposure to antineoplastic medication or to radiation, or known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibits its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the more serious adverse effects are bone marrow depression, nausea, and vomiting.
