Brand Names

How to Use

Mechlorethamine may be using either as a solution or as an ointment. If you are using the solution, it must be mixed just before you use it since it breaks down quickly Mix the solution carefully according to your family doctor's or pharmacist's directions .

When preparing the solution, remember:

• Do not use the mechlorethamine if the solution is discolored or if droplets of water appear in the vial.
• Avoid inhaling the powder or any vapors. If some of the powder or solution accidentally gets on your skin, immediately wash that area of skin. Use a large amount of water and continue to wash for at least 15 minutes. If eye contact occurs, use an eyewash recommended by your family doctor. Keep this eyewash on hand Follow carefully any other instructions your family doctor may have given you .
• All equipment using must be specially cleaned, even if it is to be thrown away Follow carefully your family doctor's instructions for doing this, using the special solution recommended.

Take a shower and rinse carefully just before you apply mechlorethamine solution or ointment, unless otherwise directed by your family doctor. Make sure your skin is completely dry before applying the ointment. Do not shower again until the next treat.

Apply the solution or ointment all over the body, until the entire amount for a dose is using up. Wear rubber or plastic gloves if you are using your hands. To apply the solution, a 2-inch-wide soft brush or gauze may be using instead. Let the solution dry.

Mechlorethamine must be applied more lightly to the groin, armpits, inside the bends of the elbows and behind the knees. These areas are more likely to get irritated.

Avoid contact with the eyes, nose, or mouth, unless otherwise directed by your family doctor.

Mechlorethamine is usually applied once a day. However, follow your family doctor's instructions. Continue to use the drug as long as you are told to. This may be months or years. However, do not use this drug more often or for a longer time than ordered. To do so may increase the risk of unwanted effects.

Dosage

• For topical dosage forms - ointment or solution:
  • For mycosis fungoides:
    • Adults Apply to the entire skin surface once a day. Several months after this drug has helped your problem, your family doctor may decrease the treats to few times a week.
    • Children Dose must be determined by your family doctor.

Missed dose If you miss a dose of this drug, go back to your regular dosing schedule and check with your family doctor. Do not change the amount you are using unless directed to do so by your family doctor.

Storage To store this drug:

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store away from heat and direct light. This applies to either the ointment or the vials of mechlorethamine using to make the solution. The solution must not be stored but instead must be freshly made just before it is using.
• Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places. Heat or moisture may cause the drug to break down.
• Do not keep outdated drug or drug no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded drug is out of the reach of children.