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Generic Name: Mechlorethamine
Brand Name(s): Mustargen®, Chlormethine, Nitrogen mustard, Embichin®
IUPAC: 2-chloro-N-(2-chloroethyl)-N-methylethanamine
FDA Approval: yes
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Usage: Mechlorethamine (Mustargen®, Chlormethine, Nitrogen mustard) is an
alkylating agent used primarily in the treatment if Hodgkin's disease as part of the MOPP
regimen (Mechlorethamine, Oncovin®, Prednisone, Procarbazine). Other malignancies for which mechlorethamine is used include chronic lymphocytic
leukemia, chronic myelogenous leukemia, small cell lung cancer, medulloblastoma
non-Hodgkin's
lymphoma. Mechlorethamine is commonly administered via injection.
Mechanism: Mechlorethamine is an alkylating agent that prevents
DNA synthesis and
RNA transcription by attaching alkyl groups to DNA bases, forms cross-links on DNA, and mispairs nucleotides which causes mutations.
Side Effects: Common side effects include nausea and vomiting. These effects can be diminished by pre-treatment with cannabinoids or phenothizine, severe bone marrow depression limits extensive use and latent viral infections may appear because of the immunosuppressive effects of the drug. Mechlorethamine may leak into the tissue surrounding the injection site, which can be a serious problem. If this occurs, treatment is usually infusion with another solution to inactivate the drug. Other important considerations include the drug's effects on fertility, potential or current pregnancy, breast-feeding, and interaction with any other medications.
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