Mechlorethamine (obsolete)

Prior to Initiation of Therapy

Experienced Physician

  • Mechlorethamine HCl) should be administered only under the supervision of a physician who is experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.

Special Handling Procedures, Avoid Exposure in Pregnancy

  • This drug is HIGHLY TOXIC and both powder and solution must be handled and administered with care. Inhalation of dust or vapors and contact with skin or mucous membranes, especially those of the eyes, must be avoided.
  •  Avoid exposure during pregnancy.
  • Due to the toxic properties of mechlorethamine (e.g., corrosivity, carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, teratogenicity), special handling procedures should be reviewed prior to handling and followed diligently.

Extravasation

  • <!--[if !supportLists]-->Extravasation of the drug into subcutaneous tissues results in a painful inflammation. The area usually becomes indurated and sloughing may occur.
  • <!--[if !supportLists]-->If leakage of drug is obvious, prompt infiltration of the area with sterile isotonic sodium thiosulfate (1/6 molar) and application of an ice compress for 6 to 12 hours may minimize the local reaction. For a 1/6 molar solution of sodium thiosulfate, use 4.14 g of sodium thiosulfate per 100 mL of Sterile Water for Injection or 2.64 g of anhydrous sodium thiosulfate per 100 mL or dilute 4 mL of Sodium Thiosulfate Injection (10%) with 6 mL of Sterile Water for Injection.

Monitoring data

  • Manage extravasation with sterile isotonic sodium thiosulfate (1/6 molar) and ice compresses for 6 to 12 hours.

Package inserts

Additional information

Updated: January 2023