Skip to main content

Mechlorethamine Topical Gel (MECHLORETHAMINE - TOPICAL)

For lymphoma.

Brand Name(s): Valchlor

Generic Name: Mechlorethamine

Instructions

DO NOT take this medicine by mouth.

Apply the medicine to the affected area.

Apply to completely dry skin. Wait 30 minutes after showering or use 4 hours before showering.

After using medicine, place tube back in the original box and return immediately to the refrigerator. Avoid contact with food.

Do not cover the area after applying the medicine.

Keep this medicine in the refrigerator.

Please ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist how to discard unused medicines safely.

This medicine should only be used on the skin.

Moisturizing lotion may be used 2 hours before or 2 hours after applying the medicine.

Avoid getting the medicine in the eyes, nose, or mouth. Wash the medicine off your fingers after applying it.

Avoid getting this medicine inside the vagina.

Do not use this medicine inside the rectum.

Gently rub the medicine into area until evenly spread.

Caregivers should wear disposable gloves to avoid directly touching the medicine.

If the medicine comes into contact with areas of skin that do not need treatment, wash the area with soap and water.

Wash your hands after applying the medicine.

Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth after handling the medicine.

If medicine gets in eyes, rinse with large amounts of cool water and seek medical care right away.

If medicine gets into the mouth or nose, rinse with water for 15 minutes and then seek medical care right away.

Allow treated area to completely dry (about 10 minutes) before covering with clothing.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Discard any unused medicine after 90 days.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Do not freeze the medicine.

This medicine is flammable. Do not use it near heaters, open flame or while smoking. Do not crush, puncture, or burn container.

Do not take the medicine more than once during 24 hours.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine.

Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor immediately.

This medicine can cause birth defects. Speak with your doctor about birth control methods that should be used while on this medicine.

Do not let other people touch the skin where this medicine is applied.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Seek medical attention if you see any signs of a serious infection. These signs include pain, increasing redness or pus where this medicine is being used.

Some patients have serious side effects from this medicine. Ask your pharmacist to show you the information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and discuss it with you.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • burning or stinging
  • itching
  • crusting or scabbing skin
  • skin irritation where medicine is applied

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • unusual bruising or discoloration on skin
  • eye pain or redness
  • fever or chills
  • mouth sores or irritation
  • blistering or peeling of the skin
  • change in skin color
  • fluid leaking from skin
  • skin sores
  • unusual changes or growths on skin
  • blurring or changes of vision

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

 
 

PeaceHealth endeavors to provide comprehensive health care information, however some topics in this database describe services and procedures not offered by our providers or within our facilities because they do not comply with, nor are they condoned by, the ethics policies of our organization.