Generic Name : MECHLORETHAMINE
Pronunciation : (me klor eth' a meen)
Trade Name(s) : Mustine HCL
Why it is prescribed: Your doctor has ordered the drug
mechlorethamine to help treat your illness. Mechlorethamine slows
or stops the growth of cancer cells in your body. In addition
to mechlorethamine, your doctor may have ordered other cancer-fighting
drugs; this treatment is called combination therapy.
When it is to be taken: The drug will be injected into
a vein. Your doctor may measure the effectiveness of your treatment
using laboratory tests and physical examinations. In general,
the length of treatment depends on the types of drugs you are
taking, how well your body responds to them, and the type of cancer
you have.
How it should be taken: The purpose of chemotherapy is
to control your illness so that your own body can aid in your
recovery. It is important to build up your body's defense system,
and a balanced diet is needed to build a healthy body. Ask your
doctor for advice on your diet.
Special Instruction :
1. Your doctor may order tests before, during and after your treatment
to see if your blood cells are affected by the drug.
2. It is especially important to prevent infection and injuries.
Avoid people with contagious diseases such as the flu.
3. Keep all cuts and scratches clean.
4. Maintain good personal hygiene, including hand washing and
mouth care. To avoid injuries, shave with an electric razor instead
of blades and wear protective clothing when working in the yard
and garden.
5. Mechlorethamine may interfere with or stop the normal menstrual
cycle (period) in women and may stop the production of sperm in
men. However, you should not assume that cannot get pregnant or
get someone else pregnant just because you are on chemotherapy.
Side Effects :
1. Although not everyone experiences side effects during chemotherapy,
some people do. If any of the effects becomes intolerable, let
your doctor know.
2. The most common discomforts are nausea and vomiting. These
symptoms may last eight to 24 hours after your treatment. Your
doctor may have ordered antinausea medications to prevent you
from feeling sick. Avoid eating favorite foods, large meals, and
spicy or hot foods when you feel nauseated.
3. You may lose your appetite, or your appetite may be greater
in the morning or at different times during the day than usual.
Take advantage of these times and eat. Frequent small meals or
snacks throughout the day may be easier to tolerate and will help
you get the nutrients your body needs.
4. Mechlorethamine may decrease the number of blood cells. These
cells include white blood cells that fight infection, red blood
cells that carry oxygen and energy, and platelets that help clot
blood and promote healing.
Other Precautions :
1. You should not plan to have children while receiving chemotherapy
or for a while after treatments. Use a reliable method of birth
control to prevent pregnancy.
2. If you notice any of the following symptoms, tell your doctor
as soon as possible: pain at the injection site, fever, chills,
sore throat, bruising, unusual bleeding or rash, fatigue, and
dizziness.
Storage Conditions : This drug is injected only under the
supervision of a physician.