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MECHLORETHAMINE (me klor ETH a meen) treats skin cancer. It works by slowing down the growth of cancer cells.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
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This medication is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Wash your hands before and after use. Use it as directed on the prescription label. Do not use it more often than directed. Keep using it unless your care team tells you to stop.
Apply a thin film of the medication to the affected area. Apply it to dry skin at least 4 hours before or 30 minutes after showering or washing. Let the area dry for 5 to 10 minutes before covering it with clothes. Do not cover the area with tight or waterproof bandages.
Handling this medication may be harmful. Wash your hands before and after touching the medication or tube. If someone helps you put it on, they should wear disposable nitrile gloves. After taking the gloves off, they should wash their hands well. If the medication gets on their skin, wash the area with soap and water for at least 15 minutes. If it gets on clothing, take the clothing off. If it gets in the eyes, mouth, or nose, rinse the area right away with lots of water for at least 15 minutes. Then, call your care team.
This medication is flammable. Avoid fire, flame, and smoking during and right after you apply it to your skin.
A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
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Interactions are not expected with this medication.
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
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Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.
This medication can transfer from your body to others. If a person or pet comes in contact with the medication, they may have serious side effects. If you cannot avoid skin-to-skin contact, cover the application site with clothing. If accidental contact happens, wash the skin of the person or pet right away with soap and water.
Do not get this medication in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water.
Talk to your care team about your risk of cancer. You may be more at risk for certain types of cancers if you take this medication.
Talk to your care team if you may be pregnant. Serious birth defects can occur if you take this medication during pregnancy. Contraception is recommended while taking this medication. Your care team can help you find the option that works for you.
If your partner can get pregnant, use a condom during sex while taking this medication.
Do not breastfeed while taking this medication.
This medication may cause infertility. Talk to your care team if you are concerned about your fertility.
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If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.
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Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
-Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
-Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
-Change in skin color
-Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
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Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store in the refrigerator, away from food. Keep this medication in the original box. Talk to your pharmacist if the medication has been out of the refrigerator for more than 1 hour a day. Get rid of any unused medication after 90 days.
This medication is flammable. Avoid exposure to heat, fire, flame, and smoking.
To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:
-Take the medication to a take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
-If you cannot return the medication, ask your pharmacist or care team how to get rid of it safely.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
DISCLAIMER: This drug information content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Patients should always consult their physician with any questions regarding a medical condition and to obtain medical advice and treatment. Drug information is sourced from GSDD (Gold Standard Drug Database ) provided by Elsevier.
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