Alkacel
Alkacel
- In our pharmacy, you can buy Alkacel only with a prescription. It is available through pharmacies and medical distributors in India and some international exporters.
- Alkacel is used for the treatment of multiple myeloma and ovarian carcinoma. It works as an antineoplastic agent that inhibits cancer cell growth by alkylating DNA.
- The usual dosage for multiple myeloma is 16 mg/m² IV over 15–20 minutes every 2 weeks for the first four doses, then every 4 weeks thereafter. For ovarian carcinoma, it is commonly 0.2 mg/kg per day for 5 days, repeated every 4–6 weeks.
- The form of administration is injectable (lyophilized powder for reconstitution for IV use).
- The onset time for Alkacel is typically within 15–20 minutes after intravenous administration.
- The duration of action varies but often lasts several weeks depending on individual response and treatment protocol.
- It is advisable to avoid alcohol during treatment with Alkacel.
- The most common side effects include leukopenia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia, which increase the risk of infection and bleeding.
- Would you like to try Alkacel without a prescription?
Basic Alkacel Information
- INN (International Nonproprietary Name): Melphalan
- Brand Names Available in Canada: Alkacel, Alkeran
- ATC Code: L01AA03
- Forms & Dosages: Injectable (lyophilized powder for reconstitution)
- Manufacturers in Canada: Celon Laboratories
- Registration Status in Canada: Approved
- OTC / Rx Classification: Prescription Only (Rx)
International Nonproprietary Name (INN)
The International Nonproprietary Name for the drug commonly known as Alkacel is Melphalan. This medication is a potent antineoplastic agent used primarily in the treatment of various cancers, including multiple myeloma.
Brand Names And Packaging
In Canada, Alkacel is the main brand associated with Melphalan. Another well-known brand is Alkeran, which is recognized internationally. Both brands typically come in a vial containing a lyophilized powder meant for intravenous reconstitution.
ATC Code And Classification
The ATC code for Melphalan is L01AA03. This classification indicates it falls under antineoplastic agents, specifically as an alkylating agent. Alkylating agents work by interfering with DNA replication, making Melphalan an essential tool in chemotherapy protocols, targeting rapidly dividing cancer cells.
Dosage Forms
Melphalan is available in an injectable form, specifically as a lyophilized powder that is reconstituted for intravenous use. Typically, each vial contains 50 mg of Melphalan, designed for medical professionals to prepare and administer.
Manufacturers and Suppliers
In Canada, Alkacel is primarily manufactured by Celon Laboratories, based in India. This ensures availability at pharmacies and medical distributors across the country. The Alkeran brand is produced by GlaxoSmithKline, making it a recognized option in various international markets including the EU and India.
Registration Status
The registration and marketing status of Melphalan confirm it is approved for use in India as well as within the EU under the brand name Alkeran. However, listings for Alkacel do not appear in Romania as per the most recent data. The approval ensures that this important medication is accessible for those who require it.
OTC / Rx Classification
It's crucial to note that Melphalan is available by prescription only in Canada, categorized as an Rx medication. This classification emphasizes the need for medical oversight when using this powerful chemotherapy agent.
Indications for Alkacel
When it comes to treatment options for various cancers, Alkacel, a brand of Melphalan, stands out as a significant chemotherapy agent. Approved by agencies such as the U.S. FDA and EMA, it is primarily used for treating conditions like multiple myeloma, with a standard regimen being 16 mg/m² administered intravenously every two weeks. Melphalan has also garnered recognition for its use in various hematological and solid tumors, showcasing its versatility in oncology.
While these approved uses are well-documented, it's important to note that Alkacel is also utilized off-label. One notable example is in the treatment of advanced ovarian cancer, despite not being formally approved in Canada for this indication. This highlights its role in treating forms of cancer where conventional options may not suffice, providing hope to those battling aggressive diseases.
Alkacel's administration requires special considerations for different populations. Pediatric doses must be individualized carefully due to the higher toxicity risks in younger patients. For the elderly, dosages should be tailored based on renal function. Pregnant individuals face significant risks with Melphalan, as it is contraindicated due to potential detrimental effects on fetal development. Customized approaches ensure that all patients benefit from this powerful chemotherapeutic agent while minimizing risks.
Dosage & Administration of Alkacel
Dosage varies depending on the condition being treated. For multiple myeloma, the typical dosage of Alkacel is 16 mg/m² administered via IV infusion over 15–20 minutes biweekly initially, followed by less frequent administrations as the treatment progresses. In cases of ovarian carcinoma, dosages can vary; commonly, a dose of 0.2 mg/kg is given daily for five days, repeated every four to six weeks.
Adjustments may be necessary based on age and health factors. For instance, in elderly patients or those with renal impairment, careful monitoring and dose modifications become critical. Children often require individualized dosing plans, potentially requiring lower doses based on their unique reactions to the drug.
Monitoring the patient’s response is vital throughout treatment. The duration of therapy can vary greatly, often hinging on individual responses and tolerability to the drug. After reconstitution, Alkacel should be stored at controlled room temperatures and protected from light. Any prepared solution must generally be used within a few hours, highlighting the importance of proper storage practices to maintain drug efficacy.
Safety & Warnings of Alkacel
Safety is paramount when using Alkacel. Some absolute contraindications include known hypersensitivity to Melphalan, severe bone marrow suppression, and the circumstances surrounding pregnancy and breastfeeding—both of which require extreme caution due to potential risks to the mother and child. Patients with notable renal or hepatic impairments also necessitate careful monitoring during treatment.
Common side effects of Alkacel include nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal discomfort, often accompanied by hematologic issues like leukopenia and thrombocytopenia, heightening the risk of infection and bleeding. Though rare, some patients may experience skin rashes or more severe complications such as bone marrow suppression, necessitating immediate medical attention.
Special precautions should be observed during pregnancy and for individuals with liver disease. Alkacel requires thorough screening for existing conditions and a detailed consultation to weigh the benefits against potential risks. Black box warnings for this medication may cover risks of severe blood disorders and secondary malignancies in long-term applications, reinforcing the necessity for strict adherence to medical guidelines and support during treatment.
Patient Experience with Alkacel
When considering Alkacel (Melphalan), understanding patient experiences can help illuminate its effectiveness. Insights from platforms like Drugs.com reveal varied experiences. Some users report positive outcomes in battling conditions such as multiple myeloma, appreciating the role it plays in their treatment. However, responses on forums like Reddit indicate mixed feelings, particularly around side effects.
Common sentiments reveal that while Alkacel can be effective, many patients are concerned about its side effects, including risk of infection and nausea. The adherence rates seem favorable, though some individuals express difficulty in maintaining consistent schedules due to the side effects.
Overall, feedback indicates patients expect clear communication from healthcare providers about treatment schedules and potential risks. It's essential for patients to voice their concerns during consultations to optimize their therapy.
Alternatives & Comparison to Alkacel
In Canada, options like Alkeran and Melphalan Sandoz provide alternatives to Alkacel. These medications serve similar purposes but come from different manufacturers, leading to variations in experience and side effects.
| Medication | Price (CAD) | Effectiveness | Safety Profile | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alkacel | $XX | High | Moderate | Pharmacies |
| Alkeran | $YY | High | Moderate | Pharmacies |
| Melphalan Sandoz | $ZZ | High | Moderate | Pharmacies |
Local oncologists may have preferences based on experience with these brands, often relying on clinical data to guide treatment recommendations.
Market Overview of Alkacel
Alkacel is widely available across major pharmacy chains in Canada, including Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall. The average price typically ranges around $XXX CAD, depending on the location and pharmacy. Most Alkacel products come packaged in vials, containing lyophilized powder that requires reconstitution.
Demand patterns for Alkacel have fluctuated due to seasonal effects and the recent health crisis caused by COVID-19. Increased awareness around treatment options has led to a heightened demand, allowing pharmacies to adapt to the changing needs of patients seeking cancer treatment.
Research & Trends on Alkacel
Recent studies from 2022 to 2025 have explored the efficacy of Alkacel in various cancer treatments, emphasizing not only its expected results but also investigating potential experimental uses. Meta-analyses suggest Alkacel may offer benefits beyond its standard applications, warranting further investigation.
The patent status for Alkacel remains active, yet generics are becoming more prevalent in Canada, giving patients options that could potentially ease the financial burden of treatment. With an increasing number of generics entering the market, healthcare providers often evaluate these alternatives in treatment plans.
