Alphalan 5mg Tablet: Comprehensive Medicine 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, chills, or other signs of infection
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Decreased urine output
- Severe abdominal pain
- New or worsening cough
- Rash or allergic reaction
- Extreme fatigue
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is alphalan 5mg tablet used for?
This medicine is an oral chemotherapy drug containing melphalan 5 mg. It is used to treat multiple myeloma, ovarian cancer, and some other cancers. It works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing. It is taken on an empty stomach, usually once daily, under the supervision of an oncologist. Common side effects include nausea, bone marrow suppression, and fatigue.
- Generic Name: Melphalan
- Manufacturer: Natco Pharma Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 alphalan 5mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा मेल्फलान 5 मिलीग्राम युक्त एक मौखिक कीमोथेरेपी टैबलेट है। इसका उपयोग मल्टीपल मायलोमा, डिम्बग्रंथि कैंसर और कुछ अन्य कैंसर के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह कैंसर कोशिकाओं के डीएनए को नुकसान पहुंचाकर उनकी वृद्धि और विभाजन को रोकती है। यह दवा केवल एक योग्य ऑन्कोलॉजिस्ट की देखरेख में ही ली जानी चाहिए।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, भूख न लगना, दस्त और मुंह के छाले शामिल हैं। अस्थि मज्जा का दमन एक गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव है, जिससे संक्रमण, एनीमिया और रक्तस्राव का खतरा बढ़ जाता है। थकान, बालों का झड़ना और त्वचा पर दाने भी हो सकते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में गंभीर अस्थि मज्जा दमन, फुफ्फुसीय फाइब्रोसिस और दुर्लभ मामलों में द्वितीयक कैंसर शामिल हैं।
सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल एक योग्य ऑन्कोलॉजिस्ट की देखरेख में ही लेनी चाहिए। दूसरों के साथ साझा न करें। गोलियों को संभालते समय सावधानी बरतें; उन्हें तोड़ने या चबाने से बचें। यदि गोली टूट जाए, तो त्वचा के संपर्क से बचें और हाथ धो लें। प्रजनन क्षमता वाली महिलाओं को उपचार के दौरान और बाद में प्रभावी गर्भनिरोधक का उपयोग करना चाहिए। पुरुषों को भी गर्भनिरोधक का उपयोग करना चाहिए। उपचार के दौरान लाइव टीकों से बचें। संक्रमण, असामान्य रक्तस्राव या चोट के किसी भी लक्षण के बारे में अपने डॉक्टर को बताएं। इस दवा को लेते समय स्तनपान न करें।
💊 alphalan 5mg tablet 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 combination with other chemotherapy agents.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Breast cancer","description":"Sometimes used in the treatment of breast cancer, though less commonly than other agents.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Polycythemia vera","description":"May be used in some cases of polycythemia vera, a blood disorder, but this is not a primary use.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Amyloidosis","description":"Sometimes used off-label in the treatment of amyloidosis, a rare disease where abnormal proteins build up in organs.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Multiple sclerosis","description":"Rarely used off-label in certain severe cases of multiple sclerosis, but this is not standard.","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 | Natco Pharma Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | ANTI NEOPLASTICS |
| Action Class | Alkylating agent |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep in the original container. Do not refrigerate unless specified by the manufacturer. |
| Shelf Life | Not established from the available information. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
| 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
This medicine is an 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. The active ingredient is a bifunctional alkylating agent, meaning it can attach to two different sites on DNA, which makes it particularly effective at interfering with rapidly dividing cells. Cancer cells, which divide more frequently than normal cells, are more susceptible to this effect. However, normal cells that divide rapidly, such as those in the bone marrow, hair follicles, and gastrointestinal tract, can also be affected, leading to side effects.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take alphalan 5mg tablet
Strength: This medicine is available as a 5 mg immediate-release tablet for oral administration.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The dose of this medicine is individualized based on the condition being treated, the patient's response, and other factors. For multiple myeloma, a typical starting dose may be 6 mg/m² orally once daily for 2-3 weeks, followed by a rest period, but this varies. For ovarian cancer, doses may range from 0.2 mg/kg/day to 0.3 mg/kg/day for 5 days, repeated every 4-6 weeks. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function, and blood counts. |
| 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 renal and hepatic function and blood counts. Close monitoring is recommended. |
| Renal Impairment | Patients with renal impairment may require dose reduction. This medicine is excreted in part by the kidneys, and accumulation may occur. Monitor renal function closely and adjust dose as needed. |
| Hepatic Impairment | Patients with hepatic impairment may require dose reduction. This medicine is metabolized in part by the liver. Monitor liver function closely and adjust dose as needed. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose is not fixed and depends on the indication and patient's tolerance. It should be determined by a qualified clinician. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of alphalan 5mg tablet
✅ 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 | |
| Other myelosuppressive agents | Moderate | |
| Cimetidine | Moderate |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Live vaccines
- Cyclosporine
- Nalidixic acid
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Warfarin
- Other myelosuppressive agents
- Cimetidine
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol may increase the risk of stomach upset 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
["Known hypersensitivity to melphalan or any component of the formulation","Severe bone marrow suppression","Active infections","Pregnancy","Breastfeeding"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["This medicine should be administered under the supervision of a qualified oncologist.","Bone marrow suppression is a common and potentially serious side effect. Regular blood counts are essential.","This medicine can cause fetal harm. Effective contraception is required for both men and women during treatment.","Avoid live vaccines during treatment.","Handle tablets with care; avoid crushing or breaking them. If broken, avoid contact with skin and wash hands thoroughly.","This medicine may impair fertility. Discuss fertility preservation options before starting treatment.","Patients with renal or hepatic impairment may require dose adjustments.","This medicine can cause secondary cancers. Long-term follow-up is recommended."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
It is not known whether this medicine 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 this medicine can cause severe bone marrow suppression, leading to life-threatening infections, bleeding, and anemia. There is no specific antidote. Management should be supportive, including blood transfusions, antibiotics, and growth factors as needed. In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. 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 the same time to make up for a missed dose.
Additional Safety Advice
This medicine should only be taken under the supervision of a qualified oncologist. Do not share this medicine with others. Handle tablets with care; avoid crushing or breaking them. If a tablet is broken, avoid contact with skin and wash hands thoroughly. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception during treatment and for some time after. Men should also use contraception. Avoid live vaccines during treatment. Inform your doctor if you have any signs of infection, unusual bleeding, or bruising. Do not breastfeed while taking this medicine. Keep all appointments for blood tests and check-ups. Store this medicine in its original container at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially bone marrow suppression. Dose adjustments may be necessary based on renal and hepatic function and blood counts. Close monitoring is recommended. Falls and infections should be prevented.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
This medicine can cause fetal harm and is contraindicated in pregnancy. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after. Men should also use contraception during treatment and for at least 3 months after. If you are planning to become pregnant, discuss with your doctor before starting treatment. Fertility preservation options should be considered before treatment.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
This medicine can impair wound healing and increase the risk of infection and bleeding after surgery. Inform your surgeon that you are taking this medicine. Your doctor may recommend stopping the medicine temporarily before surgery. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
🦷 Dental Procedures
This medicine can cause mouth sores and increase the risk of bleeding and infection after dental procedures. Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine. Your dentist may recommend postponing non-urgent dental work until your blood counts recover. Maintain good oral hygiene and follow your dentist's advice.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
This medicine can cause fatigue and dizziness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Engage in light to moderate exercise as tolerated, but avoid strenuous activities that could increase the risk of bleeding or injury. Consult your doctor before starting any exercise program.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause fatigue, dizziness, and nausea, which can affect your ability to work and perform daily activities. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. You may need to take time off work during treatment, especially around the time of blood tests and doctor visits. Discuss your work situation with your employer and healthcare team to make necessary adjustments.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Stopping early may allow the cancer to return. Your doctor will decide when to stop based on your response to treatment and any side effects. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately; they may adjust the dose or stop treatment temporarily.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine may increase the risk of secondary cancers, particularly leukemia. It can also cause permanent bone marrow damage, leading to chronic blood disorders. Regular monitoring of blood counts, liver and kidney function is necessary. Patients should be followed up long-term for any signs of late effects. Infertility may be permanent. Discuss fertility preservation options before starting treatment.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
A procedure that replaces diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells. It may be used in combination with this medicine.
Evidence: Well-establishedDrugs that target specific molecules involved in cancer growth. These may be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy.
Evidence: Well-establishedDrugs like lenalidomide and pomalidomide that modulate the immune system to fight cancer cells.
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 due to immunosuppression. Consult your doctor before receiving any vaccination.
📦 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
✅ DO
Keep out of reach of children and pets
❌ DON'T
Do not use after the expiry date
✈️ 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 that you are carrying chemotherapy medication. Keep the medicine in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss or temperature extremes. Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. If traveling across time zones, consult your doctor about adjusting the dosing schedule. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines in your destination country.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: The therapeutic effect of this medicine is not immediate. It may take several weeks to see a clinical response. Your doctor will monitor your progress with regular blood tests and adjust the dose as needed.
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.
A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. 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 the same time.
A: No, this medicine can harm an unborn baby and is contraindicated in pregnancy. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after.
A: It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine, as it may increase the risk of stomach upset and liver toxicity.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for alphalan 5mg tablet
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
alkacel 5 mg tabletCelon Laboratories Ltd ₹3,930.00 26.6% CHEAPER
-
melfalax 5mg tabletGLS Pharma Ltd. ₹4,005.00 25.2% CHEAPER
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 can harm an unborn baby and is contraindicated in pregnancy. - 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 may allow the cancer to return.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Melphalan 5 mg tablet
Brand Alternatives
- Alphalan 5mg tablet