alkacel 5 mg tablet - Melphalan (5mg) medicine

Alkacel 5 mg Tablet (Melphalan): Comprehensive Guide

No reviews yet
🏭 Celon Laboratories Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 16, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 🤰 Pregnancy Category Melphalan is contraindicated in pregnancy, particularly during the first trimester, due to risk of fetal harm. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after. If pregnancy occurs during treatment, immediate medical advice is essential. 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: High for multiple myeloma and ovarian cancer.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 16, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, chills, or other signs of infection
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising, such as nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or blood in urine or stool
  • Severe shortness of breath, cough, or chest pain
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain
  • Rash, itching, swelling of face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing
  • Extreme fatigue or weakness that interferes with daily activities
  • New or worsening mouth sores that prevent eating or drinking

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is alkacel 5 mg tablet used for?

This medicine contains melphalan 5 mg, an oral chemotherapy drug used to treat multiple myeloma, ovarian cancer, and certain other cancers. It works by damaging DNA in cancer cells, preventing their growth. It is taken on an empty stomach, and regular blood tests are essential to monitor for bone marrow suppression.

  • Generic Name: Melphalan (5mg)
  • Manufacturer: Celon Laboratories Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 alkacel 5 mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा मेल्फलान 5 मिलीग्राम की गोली है, जिसका उपयोग मल्टीपल मायलोमा, डिम्बग्रंथि के कैंसर और कुछ अन्य कैंसर के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह कीमोथेरेपी दवा है जो कैंसर कोशिकाओं के डीएनए को नुकसान पहुंचाकर उनकी वृद्धि को रोकती है। इसे खाली पेट लेना चाहिए और डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लेना चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, भूख न लगना, दस्त और मुंह के छाले शामिल हैं। इस दवा से रक्त कोशिकाओं की संख्या कम हो सकती है, जिससे संक्रमण, आसान चोट लगना या रक्तस्राव हो सकता है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में गंभीर अस्थि मज्जा दमन, फेफड़ों की समस्या, यकृत विषाक्तता और द्वितीयक कैंसर शामिल हैं। कोई भी असामान्य लक्षण होने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: यह एक शक्तिशाली कीमोथेरेपी दवा है, इसे केवल योग्य कैंसर रोग विशेषज्ञ की देखरेख में ही लें। गोलियों को संभालने के बाद हाथ धोएं। इलाज के दौरान और बाद में गर्भनिरोधक उपाय अपनाएं। जीवित टीके न लगवाएं। नियमित रक्त परीक्षण कराएं। बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के कोई नई दवा शुरू न करें। खुराक छूटने पर दोहरी खुराक न लें।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 alkacel 5 mg tablet Uses & Benefits

  • [{"condition":"Multiple myeloma","description":"This medicine is used as part of combination therapy for multiple myeloma, a cancer of plasma cells.
  • It helps slow disease progression and improve survival.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Ovarian cancer","description":"Used in the treatment of epithelial ovarian cancer, often after other treatments have been tried.","evidence":"Established"},{"condition":"Stem cell transplant conditioning","description":"High-dose melphalan is used as a conditioning regimen before autologous stem cell transplantation in multiple myeloma.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Amyloidosis","description":"Sometimes used in the treatment of AL amyloidosis, a rare disease where abnormal proteins build up in organs.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Breast cancer","description":"Rarely used in some breast cancer treatment regimens, but not a standard first-line option.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Polycythemia vera","description":"Occasionally used to control blood cell overproduction in polycythemia vera, but other treatments are preferred.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Multiple myeloma

Also treats: Ovarian cancer, Amyloidosis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Melphalan (5mg)
Brand Namealkacel 5 mg tablet
ManufacturerCelon Laboratories Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassANTI NEOPLASTICS
Action ClassAlkylating agent
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep in the original container, tightly closed. Keep out of reach of children.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineMelphalan is included in the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines for the treatment of multiple myeloma and ovarian cancer.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal, to ensure optimal absorption.
2
Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush, chew, or break it.
3
Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling the tablet to minimize exposure.
4
Use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after for women and 3 months for men.
5
Avoid live vaccines and close contact with people who have active infections.
6
Report any fever, chills, unusual bleeding, or bruising immediately to your doctor.
7
Keep all scheduled blood tests to monitor your blood counts, liver, and kidney function.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Multiple myeloma
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this condition.
Likely Use
✅
Ovarian cancer
This medicine is used in the treatment of ovarian cancer.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer; fever may indicate infection and requires immediate medical attention.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionMelphalan is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. However, absorption is variable and can be affected by food. The bioavailability is reported to be between 25% and 89%, with significant inter-patient variability.
DistributionMelphalan distributes widely throughout the body. It is approximately 60-90% bound to plasma proteins. The volume of distribution is not well established but is thought to be moderate.
Protein BindingApproximately 60-90% bound to plasma proteins, primarily albumin.
MetabolismMelphalan undergoes spontaneous hydrolysis in plasma and tissues. It is not significantly metabolized by the liver cytochrome P450 system. The primary route of elimination is chemical degradation.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life is approximately 1.5 hours, but it can range from 1 to 2 hours.
ExcretionMelphalan and its metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine. About 30-50% of a dose is excreted in urine within 24 hours, with a small amount in feces.
BioavailabilityOral bioavailability is variable, ranging from 25% to 89%.
Onset of ActionThe cytotoxic effects begin within hours of administration, but clinical effects such as tumor response may take weeks to become apparent.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are reached approximately 1-2 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe effects on blood counts can last for several weeks, with nadir (lowest point) typically occurring 2-3 weeks after a dose.

How It Works

Melphalan is a bifunctional alkylating agent derived from nitrogen mustard. It works by forming covalent bonds with DNA, specifically at the N7 position of guanine bases. This cross-linking of DNA strands prevents DNA replication and transcription, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis (programmed cell death). Because cancer cells divide rapidly, they are more susceptible to the effects of melphalan, although normal cells can also be affected, which explains many of the side effects.

Mechanism Steps

1
Cellular uptake: Melphalan enters cells via active transport mechanisms, primarily through amino acid transporters.
2
Activation: Inside the cell, melphalan undergoes spontaneous hydrolysis to form a reactive intermediate that can alkylate DNA.
3
DNA cross-linking: The reactive intermediate forms covalent bonds with guanine bases on opposite DNA strands, creating cross-links.
4
Inhibition of DNA synthesis: Cross-linked DNA cannot be replicated or transcribed, leading to cell cycle arrest.
5
Cell death: Persistent DNA damage triggers apoptosis, resulting in the death of cancer cells.

💡 How to Take alkacel 5 mg tablet

Strength: Tablet, 5 mg

1Take this medicine on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal, unless your doctor instructs otherwise.
2Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet.
3Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling the tablet.
4If you accidentally crush or break a tablet, avoid inhaling the powder and clean up according to your healthcare provider's instructions.
5Take the dose at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels.
6Follow your doctor's instructions exactly regarding the number of days to take the medicine and the rest period between cycles.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe dose of this medicine is highly individualized and depends on the condition being treated, the patient's blood counts, and overall health. For multiple myeloma, a typical oral dose may range from 0.15 mg/kg to 0.25 mg/kg per day for 4 to 7 days, repeated every 4 to 6 weeks, but this varies widely. For ovarian cancer, doses may be different. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Never adjust the dose without consulting your oncologist.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatric oncologist.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially bone marrow suppression. Dose adjustments may be necessary based on kidney function and blood counts. Close monitoring is recommended.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with renal impairment, dose reduction may be necessary. Melphalan is excreted by the kidneys, and reduced clearance can increase toxicity. Monitor kidney function and adjust dose accordingly.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustments are established for hepatic impairment, but caution is advised. Monitor liver function closely.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose varies by indication and is determined by the prescribing oncologist. Do not exceed the prescribed dose.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Avoid taking with food
Food can reduce the absorption of this medicine, leading to lower blood levels and reduced effectiveness.
Grapefruit
Avoid
Grapefruit may interact with many medicines, but specific interaction with melphalan is not well established. It is best to avoid.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of alkacel 5 mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (10-30%))
Take anti-nausea medicines as prescribed. Eat small, frequent meals. Contact your doctor if nausea is severe or persistent.
Vomiting (Common (10-30%))
Stay hydrated with clear fluids. Use prescribed anti-emetics. Seek medical attention if you cannot keep fluids down.
Loss of appetite (Common (10-30%))
Eat small, frequent meals. Choose high-calorie, high-protein foods. Consult a dietitian if needed.
Diarrhea (Common (10-30%))
Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid high-fiber foods. Use anti-diarrheal medicines only if recommended by your doctor.
Mouth sores (Common (10-30%))
Maintain good oral hygiene. Use a soft toothbrush. Rinse with salt water or prescribed mouthwash. Avoid spicy or acidic foods.
Fatigue (Common (10-30%))
Get plenty of rest. Balance activity with rest periods. Report severe fatigue to your doctor.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe bone marrow suppression (Common (dose-dependent))
Regular blood tests are essential. Report any signs of infection (fever, chills), unusual bleeding, or bruising immediately.
Severe infections (Uncommon (1-10%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop fever, sore throat, or other signs of infection.
Secondary cancers (Rare (<1%))
Long-term follow-up is necessary. Report any new lumps, unusual bleeding, or other concerning symptoms to your doctor.
Lung toxicity (pulmonary fibrosis) (Rare (<1%))
Report any new or worsening shortness of breath, cough, or chest pain immediately.
Liver toxicity (Rare (<1%))
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain. Regular liver function tests are recommended.
Severe allergic reactions (Rare (<1%))
Seek emergency help if you experience rash, itching, swelling of face or throat, or difficulty breathing.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Hemolytic anemia
Report unusual tiredness, pale skin, or jaundice to your doctor.
Interstitial pneumonitis
Seek medical attention for new or worsening cough, fever, or breathing difficulties.
Veno-occlusive disease of the liver
Report rapid weight gain, swelling of abdomen, or yellowing of skin to your doctor immediately.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Live vaccines Major
Cyclosporine Major
Nalidixic acid Major
Warfarin Moderate
Cimetidine Moderate
Other myelosuppressive agents Moderate

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Live vaccines
  • Cyclosporine
  • Nalidixic acid

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Cimetidine
  • Other myelosuppressive agents

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase the risk of stomach irritation and liver toxicity. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to melphalan or any component of the formulation","Severe bone marrow suppression","Pregnancy, especially first trimester","Breastfeeding"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["This medicine can cause severe bone marrow suppression; monitor blood counts closely.","Avoid live vaccines during treatment.","Use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after for women and 3 months for men.","Handle tablets with care; avoid crushing or breaking. Wash hands after handling.","May cause secondary cancers; long-term follow-up is necessary.","Do not breastfeed while taking this medicine.","Inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems; dose adjustments may be needed.","Report any signs of infection, bleeding, or unusual fatigue immediately."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

It is not known whether melphalan is excreted in human breast milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, breastfeeding should be discontinued during treatment and for at least 2 weeks after the last dose.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of melphalan can cause severe bone marrow suppression, leading to life-threatening infections and bleeding. If overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive, including blood transfusions, antibiotics, and growth factors as needed. There is no specific antidote.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember if it is within a few hours of the scheduled time. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Contact your doctor if you are unsure.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

This medicine is a potent chemotherapy agent and must only be taken under the supervision of a qualified oncologist. Do not share this medicine with anyone else. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the tablets. If a tablet is broken or crushed, avoid inhaling the powder and clean up spills according to your healthcare provider's instructions. Use effective contraception during treatment and for some time afterward, as this medicine can harm a developing baby. Avoid contact with people who have active infections or have recently received live vaccines. Do not receive any live vaccines while taking this medicine. Inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems, as dose adjustments may be needed. Regular blood tests are required to monitor your blood counts, liver function, and kidney function. Do not start any new medicine, including over-the-counter products, without consulting your doctor. If you miss a dose, do not double the next dose; follow your doctor's guidance.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more susceptible to the toxic effects of this medicine, especially bone marrow suppression. Close monitoring of blood counts and kidney function is recommended. Dose adjustments may be necessary.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

This medicine can harm a developing baby. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after the last dose. Men should use condoms during treatment and for at least 3 months after. If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor before starting treatment.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine can impair wound healing and increase the risk of infection after surgery. Inform your surgeon that you are taking this medicine. Your doctor may recommend temporarily stopping the medicine before surgery.

🦷 Dental Procedures

This medicine can increase the risk of bleeding and infection during dental procedures. Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine. Your dentist may recommend postponing non-urgent procedures until your blood counts recover.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to support your immune system.
🥗
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, especially if you experience diarrhea or vomiting.
😴
Get adequate rest and balance activity with rest periods to manage fatigue.
💧
Practice good oral hygiene to prevent mouth sores and infections.
🧘
Avoid crowds and people with active infections to reduce the risk of illness.
🌞
Wash your hands frequently, especially before eating and after using the bathroom.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Mild to moderate exercise, such as walking or yoga, can help manage fatigue and improve mood. However, avoid strenuous activities or contact sports that could increase the risk of bleeding or injury, especially if your platelet count is low. Consult your doctor before starting any exercise program.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Eat small, frequent meals to manage nausea and maintain energy.
Choose high-calorie, high-protein foods if you have lost appetite.
Avoid spicy, acidic, or rough-textured foods if you have mouth sores.
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
Avoid raw or undercooked meats, eggs, and unpasteurized dairy to prevent infections.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause fatigue, nausea, and other side effects that can affect your ability to work or perform daily activities. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you feel tired or dizzy. Discuss your work schedule with your doctor; adjustments may be needed during treatment cycles.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your oncologist. Treatment duration is determined by your response and side effects. If you experience severe side effects, your doctor may adjust the dose or temporarily stop treatment. Always follow your doctor's guidance.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may increase the risk of secondary cancers, particularly leukemia. It can also cause persistent bone marrow suppression, requiring ongoing monitoring. Regular follow-up with your oncologist is essential to detect any long-term complications early.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Stem cell transplantation

For eligible patients with multiple myeloma, stem cell transplantation may be an alternative or additional treatment.

Evidence: Well-established
Targeted therapy

Newer drugs like proteasome inhibitors and immunomodulatory agents are used in multiple myeloma and may be alternatives or additions to melphalan.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

Live vaccines should be avoided during treatment with this medicine due to the risk of serious infections. Inactivated vaccines may be given, but their effectiveness may be reduced. Consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription label clearly visible. Bring a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor explaining the medical need. Keep the medicine in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss or temperature extremes. Store at room temperature and protect from light and moisture. If crossing time zones, consult your doctor about adjusting the dosing schedule. Check local customs regulations for carrying controlled substances.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 62-year-old man with multiple myeloma
He was started on this medicine as part of his chemotherapy regimen. He experienced nausea and fatigue initially, but with anti-nausea medicines and rest, he was able to continue treatment. His blood counts were monitored regularly, and his dose was adjusted when his platelet count dropped. After several cycles, his myeloma markers improved significantly.
💡 Lesson: Regular monitoring and prompt management of side effects allow patients to continue treatment and achieve better outcomes.
👤 A 55-year-old woman with ovarian cancer
She was prescribed this medicine after her cancer returned. She learned to take it on an empty stomach and to avoid alcohol. She reported mouth sores, which were managed with a prescribed mouthwash. She emphasized the importance of staying hydrated and eating small, frequent meals to maintain strength.
💡 Lesson: Adhering to dietary and lifestyle recommendations can help manage side effects and improve quality of life during chemotherapy.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: The effects of this medicine on cancer cells begin within hours, but clinical improvement may take several weeks. Your doctor will monitor your response with regular tests.

Q: Can I take this medicine with food?

A: This medicine should be taken on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal, because food can reduce its absorption.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember if it is within a few hours. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

Q: Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

A: No, this medicine is contraindicated in pregnancy as it can harm the unborn baby. Use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after.

Q: Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

A: It is advisable to avoid alcohol as it may increase the risk of stomach irritation and liver toxicity.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?
  • Will I lose my hair?
  • Can I take this medicine if I have diabetes?

🔄 Substitutes for alkacel 5 mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can be taken with food to reduce stomach upset.
    Fact: This medicine should be taken on an empty stomach because food can reduce its absorption and effectiveness.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe to take during pregnancy.
    Fact: This medicine is contraindicated in pregnancy as it can harm the unborn baby.
  • Myth: You can stop taking this medicine once you feel better.
    Fact: You must complete the full course as prescribed by your doctor. Stopping early can allow the cancer to return.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Melphalan 5 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Alkacel 5 mg tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Melphalan","class":"Alkylating agent","route":"Oral","common_uses":"Multiple myeloma, ovarian cancer"},{"medicine":"Cyclophosphamide","class":"Alkylating agent","route":"Oral, intravenous","common_uses":"Multiple myeloma, lymphoma, breast cancer"},{"medicine":"Bendamustine","class":"Alkylating agent","route":"Intravenous","common_uses":"Multiple myeloma, lymphoma"}]

😊 Was this information helpful?

Browse Medicines A-Z

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Back to Medicines Directory