Alkeran (Melphalan): A Cornerstone in Multiple Myeloma and Transplant Therapy - Evidence-Based Review

Product Description: Alkeran, known generically as melphalan, is a chemotherapeutic alkylating agent belonging to the nitrogen mustard family. It is a cornerstone in the treatment of multiple myeloma and is also used in conditioning regimens prior to hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Its mechanism involves cross-linking DNA strands, thereby inhibiting cellular replication, which is particularly cytotoxic to rapidly dividing cells, including malignant plasma cells. It is available in oral tablet and intravenous injectable formulations, with the IV form often used for high-dose therapy due to more predictable pharmacokinetics.