Alkacel 50 Injection (Melphalan 50 mg): Complete Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Fever above 100.4°F (38°C) or chills
- Easy bruising or bleeding gums
- Shortness of breath or persistent cough
- Severe nausea or vomiting
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Decreased urine output
- Swelling of face, lips, or throat
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is alkacel 50 injection used for?
This medicine contains melphalan 50 mg, an alkylating agent used to treat multiple myeloma and other cancers. It works by damaging DNA in cancer cells, preventing their growth. It is given intravenously by a healthcare professional and requires regular blood monitoring.
- Generic Name: Melphalan
- Manufacturer: Celon Laboratories Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 alkacel 50 injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा मेल्फलान 50 मिलीग्राम इंजेक्शन के रूप में उपलब्ध है और इसका उपयोग मल्टीपल मायलोमा, ओवेरियन कैंसर और कुछ अन्य कैंसर के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह कैंसर कोशिकाओं के डीएनए को नुकसान पहुंचाकर उनकी वृद्धि को रोकती है। यह दवा डॉक्टर द्वारा नस के माध्यम से दी जाती है और इसके दौरान रक्त की नियमित जांच आवश्यक होती है।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में हड्डी मज्जा का दमन, कम रक्त कोशिकाएं, मतली, उल्टी, दस्त, मुंह के छाले और बालों का झड़ना शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में गंभीर संक्रमण, असामान्य रक्तस्राव, एलर्जी प्रतिक्रियाएं और फेफड़ों या यकृत की समस्याएं हो सकती हैं। कोई भी असामान्य लक्षण दिखने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल योग्य कैंसर रोग विशेषज्ञ की देखरेख में दी जानी चाहिए। उपचार के दौरान रक्त की नियमित जांच करवाएं। संक्रमण से बचने के लिए साफ-सफाई का ध्यान रखें। जीवित टीके न लगवाएं। गर्भावस्था और स्तनपान के दौरान इसका उपयोग न करें। पर्याप्त मात्रा में पानी पिएं और किसी भी असामान्य लक्षण की सूचना तुरंत डॉक्टर को दें।
💊 alkacel 50 injection Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Multiple myeloma","description":"Used as part of combination therapy or as a single agent for the treatment of multiple myeloma, a cancer of plasma cells.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Ovarian cancer","description":"Used in the treatment of ovarian cancer, often in regional perfusion or as part of a combination regimen.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Breast cancer","description":"Sometimes used in high-dose chemotherapy regimens for breast cancer, often in clinical trial settings.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Polycythemia vera","description":"May be used to reduce red blood cell production in polycythemia vera, a rare blood disorder.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Amyloidosis","description":"Occasionally used off-label in the treatment of amyloidosis, a condition where abnormal proteins build up in organs.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Multiple sclerosis","description":"Rarely used off-label in aggressive forms of multiple sclerosis, but this is not standard practice.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Multiple myeloma
Also treats: Ovarian cancer, Breast cancer, Polycythemia vera
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Melphalan |
| Brand Name | Alphalan |
| Manufacturer | Celon Laboratories Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | ANTI NEOPLASTICS |
| Action Class | Alkylating agent |
| Route of Administration | Intravenous |
| Storage | Store refrigerated at 2-8°C (36-46°F). Protect from light. Do not freeze. |
| Shelf Life | Refer to the product label for the exact shelf life. Typically 24 months from the date of manufacture. |
| WHO Guideline | Melphalan is included in the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines for the treatment of multiple myeloma. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
Melphalan is a bifunctional alkylating agent that works by forming covalent bonds with DNA, leading to cross-linking of DNA strands. This cross-linking prevents DNA replication and transcription, ultimately causing cell death. Because cancer cells divide rapidly, they are more susceptible to the effects of melphalan. The medicine is not cell-cycle specific, meaning it can affect cells at any phase of the cell cycle.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take alkacel 50 injection
Strength: Injection: 50 mg vial
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The dose of this medicine is determined by your doctor based on your condition, body weight, and blood counts. It is usually given as a single intravenous dose or as part of a combination regimen. Doses may range from 16 mg/m² to 200 mg/m² depending on the indication. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatric oncologist. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly 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 overall health. Close monitoring is required. |
| Renal Impairment | Dose reduction may be necessary in patients with kidney impairment. Monitor kidney function closely and adjust dose as needed. |
| Hepatic Impairment | Dose reduction may be necessary in patients with liver impairment. Monitor liver function closely and adjust dose as needed. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose varies by indication and is determined by the treating oncologist. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of alkacel 50 injection
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Live vaccines | Major | |
| Cyclosporine | Major | |
| Nalidixic acid | Major | |
| Warfarin | Moderate | |
| Phenytoin | Moderate | |
| Cimetidine | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Live vaccines
- Cyclosporine
- Nalidixic acid
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Warfarin
- Phenytoin
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol should be avoided while receiving this medicine because it can increase the risk of liver toxicity and worsen nausea and vomiting.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known hypersensitivity to melphalan","Severe bone marrow suppression","Active infections","Pregnancy","Breastfeeding"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Bone marrow suppression is the primary toxicity; monitor blood counts closely.","Avoid live vaccines during treatment.","Use effective contraception during and after treatment.","May cause fetal harm; avoid in pregnancy.","Use with caution in patients with kidney or liver impairment.","May increase risk of secondary cancers."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
It is not known whether melphalan is excreted in human milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, breastfeeding should be discontinued during treatment.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of melphalan can cause severe bone marrow suppression, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. There is no specific antidote. Treatment is supportive, including blood transfusions, antibiotics, and fluids. In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
⏰ Missed Dose
This medicine is given by a healthcare professional, so missed doses are unlikely. If you miss an appointment for your dose, contact your doctor as soon as possible to reschedule.
Additional Safety Advice
This medicine must be given under the supervision of a qualified oncologist. Regular blood tests are required to monitor your blood counts, liver function, and kidney function. Avoid contact with people who have infections, and practice good hand hygiene. Do not receive any live vaccines while on this medicine. Use effective contraception during treatment and for some time after, as this medicine can harm an unborn baby. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Drink plenty of fluids to help flush the medicine from your body. Report any unusual symptoms promptly.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may be more susceptible to the side effects of this medicine, especially bone marrow suppression and infections. Close monitoring and dose adjustments are often necessary.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
This medicine can harm an unborn baby. Women should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after. Men should also use contraception for at least 3 months after treatment. Consult your doctor if you are planning pregnancy.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
This medicine can increase the risk of bleeding and infection after surgery. Inform your surgeon that you are receiving this medicine. Your doctor may recommend delaying surgery or adjusting the dose.
🦷 Dental Procedures
This medicine can cause mouth sores and increase the risk of bleeding and infection during dental procedures. Inform your dentist that you are receiving this medicine. Your dentist may recommend postponing non-urgent procedures until your blood counts recover.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Exercise as tolerated, but avoid strenuous activities if you have low blood counts or feel fatigued. Consult your doctor before starting any exercise program.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine can cause fatigue, nausea, and increased risk of infections, which may affect your ability to work. Discuss with your employer about flexible hours or remote work options. Avoid operating heavy machinery if you feel dizzy or tired.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. Treatment duration is determined by your oncologist based on your response and side effects. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately; they may adjust or stop the treatment.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine may increase the risk of secondary cancers, bone marrow suppression, and organ toxicity. Regular monitoring of blood counts, liver, and kidney function is essential. Some side effects may persist or appear months after treatment ends. Discuss any new symptoms with your doctor.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
May be recommended for eligible patients with multiple myeloma.
Evidence: Well-establishedOther medicines that target specific cancer cell markers may be used.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
Live vaccines should be avoided during treatment with this medicine because of the increased risk of infection. Inactivated vaccines may be given, but their effectiveness may be reduced. Consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store refrigerated at 2-8°C
❌ DON'T
Do not freeze
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Protect from light
❌ DON'T
Do not store at room temperature for prolonged periods
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription label. Keep it refrigerated at 2-8°C using a cooler bag with ice packs. Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor explaining the need for the medicine. Check with airlines and customs about regulations for carrying injectable medicines. Plan for time zone changes if your dosing schedule is affected, and consult your doctor for adjustments.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
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.
A: This medicine can cause fatigue and dizziness. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
A: Avoid live vaccines, alcohol, and contact with people who have infections. Use contraception to prevent pregnancy.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for alkacel 50 injection
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
alphalan 50mg injectionNatco Pharma Ltd ₹1,684.00 29.8% CHEAPER
-
melfalax 50mg injectionGLS Pharma Ltd. ₹2,500.00 4.2% COSTLIER
-
megval 50mg injectionEmcure Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹2,597.00 8.2% COSTLIER
-
melphater 50mg injectionTherdose Pharma Pvt Ltd ₹4,200.00 75% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: Melphalan can be taken at home.
Fact: Melphalan must be given by a healthcare professional in a clinic or hospital setting. - Myth: Melphalan has no serious side effects.
Fact: Melphalan can cause severe bone marrow suppression and other serious side effects.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Melphalan
Brand Alternatives
- Alkacel 50 injection